National Black Business Month Spotlight: "Mr. Rita"

It is estimated that black-owned businesses have increased by 61 percent in the past few years. This increase is more than triple the rate of growth for all businesses according to Forbes magazine.

Prince George’s County had the highest share of any large county nationwide with 55 percent. Anne Arundel County ranks third in Maryland. Jerry Orr has contributed to both of those statistics. Orr owns two Rita’s Italian Ice stores, one in Crofton and the other in Bowie.  Rita's Italian Ices provides frozen treats including its signature Italian ices, cream ices, gelatos and frozen custard.

Known to local school children as “Mr. Rita,” Orr opened his Crofton location in July 1998 after attending a franchising show. “I always knew I wanted to go into business for myself. At the time no one had heard of Rita’s; it was something new. I was also drawn to it because it is fat and cholesterol free making it a wonderful choice for families,” said the Lanham resident.  He goes on to add that he instantly fell in love with the product and knew that others would too. 

“When we first opened I was eating one or two large ices everyday. Then my wife made me cut back. I still enjoy them; my current favorite is the Lemon Ice. But I also love the Mango Ice topped with vanilla frozen custard. Let's just say this is a fun place to own,” laughed the father of two. 

Employee Katie Klark couldn’t agree more. “It’s so much fun working here. This is my fourth season,” said the AACC student. “I live in Crofton, go to school during the year and do this on summer break. Jerry is a great boss and I will return again next year,” says Klark. She also added that her favorite flavor is raspberry.

“I choose Crofton and Bowie because both areas have lots of families. Plus, this gives me a great way to give back to the community. We offer many ways for local churches, groups, sports and schools to participate in fund raising activities. Our most popular is the “$5.00 Discount Card.” Organizations pre-purchase Rita’s Discount Cards for $1 each. The organization then re-sells them for $5.00. The customers get 10-percent off their purchases the entire season,” said Orr. 

On a recent Saturday night Bridget Gurtshaw was one of five employees staffing the Bowie location. “This is my first job and I love working here. Jerry is great. He often surprises us with little treats such as snacks and foods from the local restaurants. I feel like he really appreciates our hard work,” said the sixteen year old. 

“I have come to know the regulars, many stop in a few times a week. I can understand why because I eat a Cotton Candy ice just about everyday I’m here,” said the Bowie resident, Gurtshaw. 

As most of us are finishing our vacation Orr is just beginning to think of his. “Our stores close on October 9th. Then I get to go on vacation,” said Orr.