Thousands Enjoy Rita's on First (Cold) Day of Spring
By: Shannon Murphy
Updated: March 20, 2013
Kingston, Luzerne County - The calendar says it's the first day of Spring but for people in line at Rita's in Kingston, it's the free Italian ice that signifies the change in seasons.
Kevin Pysniak comes to Rita's every year for the annual ice giveaway. He says the lines are long but after years of experience he knows a short cut, "It's not really long if you go in the second line, not the first one!"
Standing in a long line outside in the cold to eat ice in 30 degree weather may not sound like fun, but Lori Alesson says it could be worse, "Well it's not snowing! I think better days are ahead."
While some couldn't say no to Rita's, others spent this first day of Spring playing outside. Kim Kelly brought her two year old daughter Aleyah to Kirby Park. She says as long as you're moving your fine, "I was hoping it was going to be nice and it's a great day to be out besides the wind. It's not too bad!"
Mark Werkheisar skate boarded his way through the first day of Spring, but he's dressed for the weather!
Everyone says they are tired of being cooped up inside so no matter what the thermometer reads, they're celebrating spring!
Rita's in Kingston said they set a record last Spring when they gave away over 4500 free Italian ice.
