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We’re Excited to Announce the Finalists for Ben’s Pick of the County Awards!

Following a spirited nomination period beginning February 1st and concluding on the 16th, we’re thrilled to announce the finalists of the “Ben’s Pick of the County” Awards. On February 19th, It’s will be your opportunity to support your favorite local establishments and determine this year’s winners.

The voting kicks off on February 19th and will close at midnight on February 25th.

In the Ice Cream category, your choices are Kennys, Igloo, Meadows, and Brusters. For Pizza lovers, the options include Rosalie’s, Carrettis, Pat And Carlas 2, and Pat & Carlas 3. If wings are your thing, you can choose between Norland Pub, Bonanza Steakhouse, and Buffalo Wild Wings. The Family Diner contenders are Hickory Ridge, Greenvillage, Trojan Diner, and 30 West, while coffee enthusiasts have Dunkin Donuts, Omega, Starbucks, and Denim Coffee to select from.

Burger aficionados can vote among Red Robin, Kennys, Five Guys, and Vfw 1599. Fries fans have choices like Five Guys, Red Robin, Burger King, and McDonalds. Seafood selections feature Red Lobster, Copper Kettle, Aki, and Vfw 1599, while steak enthusiasts can opt for Texas Roadhouse, Bonanza Steakhouse, Longhorn, and Copper Kettle.

In our bustling Downtown Restaurant or Eatery category, nominees are Falafel Shak, Bistro 71, Veroni Cafe, and Pat And Carlas. Ethnic Restaurant choices showcase Veroni Cafe, Falafel Shak, Montezumas, and Aki. Wine connoisseurs can select from Screaming Bambino, Janzell, Adams County, and Gettysburg Winery, while beer enthusiasts have Gearhouse Brewing Co, Hidden Key Brewing, and Michaux as options.

For Local Grocery Store, nominees include Butcher Shoppe, Giant, Sunnyway, and Grocery Outlet. Barbershop or Salon candidates are Beauty Enforcers, Hair Razors, Fringe, and Hair Cuttery. Boutique options feature Black And Blush, Vintage Buckle, and Here’s Looking At You, while Hunting/ Outdoors/ Firearms enthusiasts have Sportsmans Warehouse and Keystone Country Store to support.

In the Flower/ Gift Shop category, the finalists are Royers, Cheerful Flowers & Gifts, and Willow And Birch. Jewelry selections include Belle Jewelers, Ludwigs, Belle, and Jewelry Shop. Those looking for Mattress/ Furniture can choose from Colony House, Porters, Ashleys, and Mattress Firm.

Fitness Center/ Personal Trainer finalists include Front Porch Fitness, Results, Path Valley Fitness, and Strength Endures. Pharmacy choices feature Chambers’ Apothecary, Norland Pharmacy, Park Ave, and CVS.

In the School District (Public and Private) category, the finalists are Cumberland Valley Christian School, Shalom Christian Academy, Chambersburg Area School District, and Fannett-Metal School District, highlighting the excellence and dedication within our local educational institutions.

Remember, nominees can enjoy a 10% discount on advertising with the Franklin County Free Press. For more details, please reach out to Rick at rick@fcfreepress.com. Visit our website to cast your vote and help us celebrate the best of Franklin County. Your voice is essential in recognizing the hard work and dedication of these local businesses and institutions.

Tilman R. Frye 1938-2026

Tilman started his career as a photolithographer at Lebanon Valley Offset. He also served as an agent for the Pennsylvania Parole Board.

Fleeing and eluding

Chambersburg Police Department is attempting to identify the subject involved in a fleeing and eluding incident involving a black e-bike. Chambersburg Police are attempting to identify the individual photographed below.

Shirley J. Montgomery 1935-2026

Shirley treasured family time spent together, whether on family vacations, celebrating holidays, or gathering for cookouts at Caledonia State Park.

44-Bed Homeless Shelter to Open in Carlisle

Community CARES plans to open The Cove, a 44-bed emergency homeless shelter, in early November at 230 S. Spring Garden St. in Carlisle, according to Cumberland County. The shelter will

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.