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New Rita’s Italian Ice Location Set to Open in Franklin County

Franklin County is gearing up for the opening of a new Rita’s Italian Ice, bringing a refreshing taste of summer to the area. Located at 731 Wayne Avenue in Chambersburg, this new 1,500-square-foot establishment is expected to welcome its first customers in May 2024.

The franchise, known for its popular Italian ice and frozen treats, is expanding under the ownership of Keila and Mark Trace. The couple is not new to the Rita’s franchise, already operating a successful location in Frederick, Maryland, since June 2022.

Keila Trace brings a personal connection to the new venture, having worked at a Rita’s in Chambersburg approximately 20 years ago. This particular Rita’s location closed eight years ago, but with the opening of the new store, the Trace family is set to revive the brand’s presence in the area.

The new Rita’s Italian Ice in Chambersburg will operate from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Sunday, during the summer months. With its opening, the Trace family plans to create 25 job opportunities, including 20 part-time and five full-time positions, contributing to the local economy and providing a beloved spot for residents to enjoy during the warmer months.

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Who We Are

The Franklin County Free Press, established by Vicky Taylor in 2019, emerged as a beacon of local journalism for the residents of Franklin County. Under Vicky's leadership, it quickly became an essential source of news, particularly at a time when major newspaper publications were increasingly overlooking local coverage.

On January 1, 2022, the torch was passed to Nathan Neil and his firm, Neil Publishing, LLC. Neil, a local entrepreneur with multiple thriving businesses in Chambersburg, shares Vicky's fervent commitment to both the community and the world of local journalism.

Rooted in the heart of Franklin County and powered by its residents, the Franklin County Free Press continues to bridge the gap, ensuring that the local stories, events, and issues that matter most to the community remain in the spotlight.