BY SALINA POST
August 1, 1983 marked an important milestone for Ken and Alice Robson, as they began their new adventure as owners of the former Callie's Card Corner in downtown Ellsworth. Together with the former owners Loren and Callie Reber and other previous owners, the store has been an anchor and a cornerstone of excellent customer service for 90 years.
On August 4th and 5th, Ken and Alice invite the community and its loyal customers to celebrate forty years of Robson's Card & Gift, in conjunction with the downtown celebration Vintage to Vibrant. The celebration will begin on Friday, August 4 at 8 a.m. with an old tradition of sidewalk sales, along with refreshments and must-have grab bags and bargains. The celebration will continue on Saturday, August 5 at 9 a.m., and until closing at 3 p.m.
In forty years, Ken and Alice could write the book on a changing community and retail, economic challenges, customer service, and how to remain ever-adapting and flexible. The store itself could write a chapter, as it grew from cards and gifts to a Gold Crown Hallmark, office supplies, and a loyal fanbase of Hallmark Keepsake Ornaments.
"Ken and Alice are the very picture of downtown retail at is best. They go above and beyond at every single request, and are the very heart and soul of our community. In addition to their storefront, they are also avid community supporters, from events to volunteering, to even being the cheerleader everyone needs on their team," said Stacie Schmidt, Executive Director of Grow Ellsworth County.
Ken and Alice celebrate forty years along with a desire to pass the torch to the next owner, to extend the life beyond 40 years and continue the many traditions they have enjoyed. "We are grateful for the supportive community we have served, but are looking forward to retirement and spending more time with our grandchildren. Downtown Ellsworth is a unique opportunity for the next generation to explore new possibilities, while maintaining the unique personality of a small town."
Interested entrepreneurs may contact Ken or Alice Robson at 785-472-3931 or may contact Stacie Schmidt at Grow Ellsworth County at 785-472-9204.
Details on the Vintage to Vibrant celebration are available here: https://www.growellsworthcounty.com/vintage