For some, the first signs of spring are not warmer temperatures or the April showers that bring May flowers. It is not the cracking of the bats at the baseball and softball fields or the pounding of spikes on the track. For some, or maybe just me, it is something better. It is the smell of sugar and cream filling the spring air. The sweet sensation of sprinkles on my tongue and the warm feeling that ice-cold cream sends to my soul. Luckily, the citizens of Cass and Miami counties are blessed by the openings of famous, beloved local ice cream parlors. Sycamore Drive-In, East End Double Dip, and Charbett’s are the highlights of everyone’s spring.
The infamous Sycamore kicked off the start of the season with its grand opening on February 27. This information was stated on the chain’s Facebook and spread like wildfire. Located in Logansport, Indiana, several “Cass Countians” were counting down the days until opening day. Sycamore brought joy and happiness to everyone throughout the county in the form of customized Bubbas and Chip Witches. As expected, the line was wrapped around the block, and people were standing in line throughout the streets, but that did not stop the ice cream craving fans. One fan in particular was Mia Hall, a Lewis Cass junior. Mia indulged in a fudge brownie Bubba, a Sycamore classic. She even said, “The mixture was perfect”.
Next up on the grand opening chain was East End Double Dip. This is one place I believe is “slept on” when it comes to local ice cream shops. East End opened on March 1, shortly after Sycamore. Its famous Hurricanes and lemon soft serve were enjoyed throughout the town of Peru, where East End is located. Throughout my years of pursuing ice cream, I have been to East End several of times but have only enjoyed one item from this location, a Puppy Chow Hurricane. Personally, I crave this year-round and fall asleep thinking about it some nights. I know exactly what a Puppy Chow Hurricane will taste like every time, and I never even have to question if I should switch it up because nothing else will satisfy my cravings like a Puppy Chow Hurricane. Recently, I was informed of a new way to enjoy my favorite sweet treat. Customers are encouraged to switch out the classic vanilla ice cream, which is typically made with for chocolate. This recommendation is courtesy of Cass County native Rylan Preston. I have yet to try the recommendation this season, but I had the opportunity to be reunited with my beloved, classic, and timeless Puppy Chow Hurricane. It was just as beautifully sweet and flavorful as I remember. I cannot wait to indulge in this sweet treat all summer long.
Finally, to round the spring openings out, we have Charbett’s. Charbett’s brought joy to everyone who arrived at their storefront in Logansport on March 2. Arctic Blitzs were blitzing their way through the county as the long-awaited grand opening was finally there. Though they are more famously known for their outrageously greasy yet delicious cheeseburgers, people still indulged in the decadent flavors of ice cream.
All in all, you can find whatever Chips your Witch, Hurri your Canes, or Artics your Blitz you are sure to find something this spring. Though the flavours are memorable, it is the local love behind them that makes them count. The sweet taste may be great, but what is greater is the thought that customers are supporting a local business, family, and caring hands.
