SOMETHING NEW - Food, fresh produce and camel hair macrame among offerings at Plainfield Township's first farm market. The Thursday afternoon market begins this week and will continue through October 30.

The result is a new farm market - the township's first - offering fresh local produce, crafts and food.

"The employees deserve 100 percent credit for this," said township clerk Sue Morrow. "A lot of people feel Plainfield Township is a very positive place to live and work."

She said departments were asked to brainstorm about ways to promote the township and every group included a farm market on the list. "We must have had 15 ideas, but it was very easy to cul down the list because the market was the first and overwhelming choice." With a vacant property across from township hall, the location was a cinch.

The market opens Thursday, June 19 and will run from 3 to 7 p.m. each Thursday through the end of October. Coordinator Monte Bell said the evening, weekday hours were chosen to allow people to shop after work. He said the site has room for 50 vendors, places to sit and eat, and plenty of parking.

The market will also feature classes weekly, with Young Gardeners every week at 3:15 p.m. and other classes offered to the public at 4:15 and 5:15 p.m.

The market will also host a featured booth offered free of charge to a non-profit organization to provide a public service. For the first market the Plainfield Township Water Department will offer water conservation and other water use tips.

"We are very excited to offer this and have had overwhelmingly positive feedback," Belle said.

The market will offer fresh produce in season by farmers in Plainfield and surrounding areas, and should grow as new vendors sign on. For starters there are a variety of local growers offering in-season produce, craftspeople with woodworking, ceramics, purses, stuffed animals and even camel-hair macrame.

Dallas Deli of Byron Center will have a smoker on the site and offer pulled pork and chicken and handmade treats to eat there or take home. "I'm not sure what they'll have but it won't be a hot dog and a bag of chips," Morrow said.

Planning the new venue was time consuming and rewarding. Working with the Health Department to make sure all was in order as well as the road commission was involved. Morrow said the township would have liked to put up a banner advertising the event, but learned a lot about restrictions.

Anyone who would like to find out more about buying booth space - by the day or for the season - is encouraged to visit farmersmarket@plainfieldchartertwp.org or call the township offices at (616) 364-8466.

"This is win-win," Belle said. "There is so much stuff imported nowadays. You don't know where it came from."

Author Ann Byle is pictured with Charles (Chuck) Weldon and his wife Ann at a book signing Saturday, June 14 at The Reading Tree on Northland Drive. Below is the book cover, featuring Martin Buth and his son George Buth, now a circuit court judge.

Author Ann Byle hopes that changes now that her book on local history is available for purchase. Images of America Plainfield Township tells the story all residents here share, whether we know it or not.

Byle believes learning the story of where we live is important and brings new awareness that is enriching. It is also fun to discover.

Some may remember the mansion on top of the hill at Cannonsburg and Northland Drive. It was built by Joseph Brewer, founder of Blythefield Country Club. Details are in the book. Readers will also find the tale of a notorious cold-blooded murder of a Silver Lake woman following a romantic dinner at Fingers Restaurant with a man who wasn't her husband. Find out about Belmont as a thriving town due to the railroad. The railroad killed the settlement at the former Grand River ferry crossing on Northland Drive as people chose to live near easier, faster transportation. Only one home of many remains standing today as Plainfield Township's historical museum. Also find out about the town of Childsdale, which also prospered due to the new train traffic.

Bob Hope visited Blythefield Country Club and played in a tournament in June, 1946. Blythefield Acres began as a small subdivision in the 1950s. The properties were advertised as "delightful, superb suburban homesites." Prices started at $650 down on $2,250 lots. Other surprising bits of historical fact are to be found in Byle's Images of America Plainfield Township.

The book tells the history of the families, schools and churches in the area through photographs and captions. Byle researched by visiting historical societies and libraries and tracking down old families.

The freelance Grand Rapids Press reporter said she was inspired after writing about a similar book written about Alpine Township.

"This history is being lost because no one remembers it," she said. She said so many stories happened in the places where we live now, yet most residents are never aware. Byle said it is both humbling and builds perspective to learn about the very real, very exciting lives of these people.

The book is available at The Reading Tree, 5300 Northland Drive.

Byle will offer book signings on Saturday, June 21, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Barnes & Noble, 3670 28th St. SE; Tuesday, June 24, 7 p.m., at Schuler Books & Music, 3165 Alpine Ave. NW; on Tuesday, July 22, at 7 p.m., at GRPL Ryerson Library; and Thursday, Aug. 8, 3 from 7 p.m., at the Plainfield Township Farmer's Market as the featured booth.

Byle said she learned so much about her own home township and looks forward to sharing the information for future generations. "Every place has that history. Now everything is so transient, so global, we lose our sense of history. It's easier to talk to your friend in Seattle than get out and look around where you live."

PEOPLE HELPING PEOPLE - Volunteers Carolyn Davis, Bonnie Tovey and John Decker enjoyed the celebration of 35 years of service the North Kent Service Center held this month. DON'T FORGET THE PETS IN NEED AS WELL - When Voice of Animals got the news that North Kent Service Center was out of food for the animals, they used part of a generous donation to buy, load up and deliver two trucks full. Generous folks donate food for humans, but it is easy to forget the pets.Help keep pets in their homes during these hard times. Also, we want senior citizens to eat their food, not have to give it to the animals. We know how benificial pets are to families, especially our seniors. Please consider a donation of food or litter when you donate for the humans. If we all do a little, we can make it through these hard times. - Voice of Animals Rescue

The center celebrated 35 years of serving the community on Thursday, June 5. Facts and figures prove the worth of the non-profit organization. In 2007 the Center gave away 566,182 pounds of food - an average of 10,887 per week. Need has increased over the years from June 5, 1973 when the center opened its doors. It was founded by the Rockford Area Ministerial Association. Founders included the Rev. Richard Lindvall, pastor of Northland Congregational Church and volunteer and first board president Peg Ferrand. The original organization operated on a budget of $1,223 and served 37 individuals. Times have changed.

This year the Center was recognized by Governor Jennifer Granholm with a special tribute by the State of Michigan for its long history of service, and unselfish commitment to the common good. Current board president Chuck Smith read the tribute to volunteers, clients and staff, praising the center or never veering from its commitment of service.

The center's longest-serving volunteer was on hand for the gala. Bonnie Tovie began helping out the Center in 1982 and hasn't stopped since. "I've seen it really grow," she said, telling of one of the earlier locations where plastic sheeting was nailed to the ceiling to keep the rain off volunteers and donations. Now the facility is in a million dollar building and already looking to expand after five years. "It's a two-fisted thing, the more the need is, the more room we need," she said. Plans are to eventually expand the warehouse part of the facility to the back of the property.

Director Sandy Waite said the people that come for help aren't lazy or lacking in ambition. "These are hard working people who are having a hard time for whatever reason." She said more and more clients are those who are working but still cannot catch up or keep up because of a catastrophic financial event, such as loss of medical benefits or an illness. "Often we help them out and later these are the same people who get back on their feet and come back and donate and volunteer themselves," she said. "I tell them, 'You won't need our help forever, this is just a bump in the road.'"

The North Kent Service Center is located at 10075 Northland Drive, just north of Rockford.

PRETTY SAD - Marie Norman believes the flowers she put on her husband's grave were stolen by someone who came ill-prepared to honor one of their own loved ones.

The day before Memorial Day Marie brought a hanging basket filled with Forrest Norman's favorite flowers. She had picked them out - ferns and other plants with little scent because her husband had been alergic - and hung the display on the shepherd's hook purchased for that purpose. The next day the flowers were gone. The same thing happened last year.

"I don't think it's kids," Marie said. The cemetery, Oakfield Courtland Cemetery on Myers Lake Road, is a rural one without a history of vandalism or child mischief. She believes someone stole her flowers to put on another grave. Last year she found her flowers - also hand-chosen in memory of her husband's favorites - hanging on another grave. She is reluctant to replace the not-inexpensive basket for fear of the same thing happening again, and wonders if the motive might be financial for someone who doesn't want to pay for their own flowers.

Marie has always visited often and enjoys seeing the names of old families as well as her own family among the gravestones. Her parents are there as well as her husband and his brother, Robert.

The grounds are well kept and include some old markers. Marie fondly remembers some of the people buried there and can tell the stories that go along with them. There are soldiers she knew; a pair of twins who were killed together more than 20 years ago when they missed a stop sign. It is usually a peaceful place to go and remember those now passed.

She also enjoys seeing the names of newer families who have moved to the area, and realizing they were from old families and have now returned. The peaceful and calming atmosphere of the place has now been somewhat spoiled by the thefts.

"I almost think someone has it in for me because it keeps happening," Marie joked. Realistically, she believes it is more likely a matter of location. The stone which marks her husband's final resting site, and which contains her own name as well, is close to the road winding through the plots.

"It is probably easy for them to take because it's so close," she commented. She hopes someone will think twice about taking displays and 'regifting' them to their own loved one's plot. At the least, she wants those responsible to know that it isn't a harmless action.

"It's pretty sad when they steal flowers off graves."

Who can resist a labor of love? This completely hand-built beauty won the people's choice award at the Cannon Classic Car Show.

Weather was better than anyone dared hope and turnout was the same. According to organizers of the Cannon Classic Car Show held Saturday, June 7, over 500 ice cream sandwiches were handed out for donations to the North Kent Service Center and hundreds viewed and voted on the cars. Ted Trocke of Bella Vista Auto Service said they hoped to have 30 to 35 local cars and ended up with 64. Families set up tents and enjoyed the day.

The Rockford Chamber of Commerce and Start of Summer Celebration committee would like to again thank this great community, the businesses, and all the volunteers for their participation and support of the 40th Annual Start of Summer celebration. Even the unpredictable weather couldn't deter our spirits!

The RCC would like to sincerely thank the Start of Summer Celebration Committee for all their hard work and their continuing commitment to this event: Polly VonEschen - SOS Chair; Gay McDonald - Entertainment Chair; Rene Bravata - Parade Chair; Linda Southwick - Craft Chair, Ruth Reickard, Heidi Bravata, Trisha Schmidt, Dr. Mike Shibler, John and Mike Scheidel, Michael Young, Chief Dave Jones, Chief Mike Reus, Dick Johnston, Jody Greco, Dan Cleveland, JD Decker and newcomers Jeannie Gregory, Candy Lancioni and Dianna VanAntwerp.

A special thank you to City of Rockford, Rockford DPW, Rockford Police Department, Rockford Fire Department, Rockford Ambulance, Rockford Education Foundation, Scheidel Electric, St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Aunt Candy's Toy Company, ASP team from RUMC, and the Kent County Sheriff Department. Once again their contribution of time and talents was a major factor in creating a safe and very successful SOS celebration.

Thank you to Meijer Inc., Byrne Electrical Specialists, and Cannonsburg Wood Products for sponsoring the fantastic fireworks display!

As always our hometown newspapers, the Rockford Independent and the Rockford Squire always provide excellent coverage of the events and we are very thankful for their support!

THANKS ROCKFORD!!!!

Rockford Chamber of Commerce thanks our 2008 Community Benefactors Byrne Electrical Specialists, Inc. ~ Grand Rapids Controls Company, LLC ~ Wolverine World Wide, Inc.

SOMETHING'S HAPPENING HERE - There are programs for all ages planned at your local library. From programs for the very young, such as this puppet-making event to smoothie making for teenagers, there is plenty to keep summer boredom at bay at Krause Memorial Library.

by VICKI CASSIS

"The Krause Memorial Library staff is looking forward to a fun and busy summer of programming for kids of all ages," said Julie Ralston, Youth Paraprofessional.

The Summer Reading Club is broken down into two groups, one for kids entering grades five and under called, "Catch the Reading Bug at Your Library" with creepy crawly fun for all readers and pre-readers. Added programs involve animals in a petting zoo, pet show and the Buzz about the Honeybee.

For those entering grades six through 12 (teens or tweens), the Summer Reading Club offers a "Metamorphosis at Your Library," all about transformation. Also, there's much excitement with gaming, crafts, and cake decorating. Add this to programs on smoothie making, a creative beading, skateboard design and a Nintendo Wii tournament and every willing kid is sure to find a fun event. The branch will be raffling off awesome prizes for summer participants

Storytime is great for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers; there will also be arts and crafts, a carnival, a craft sale, and a pet show. Also, a petting zoo, a visit with honey bees, a wildlife safari presentation, and a magic show are scheduled along with a popular Bubbleology program. A special welcome back to the West Michigan Therapy Dogs Association with a program called "Ruff Readers," a unique read aloud session which will pair kids ages six and up with a dog and handler team who love to hear a good story.

"We're very pleased and proud to offer programs for teens and children," said branch manager Jennifer German while the adult programs will resume in the fall.

Sign up for the book clubs and see all events listed online, so be sure to check the schedule and get more information at www.kdl.org under the Krause Memorial Library. Or stop by and pick up a brochure as some require registration.

Indiana Wesleyan University's Austin Longberg received recognition on the National Dean's List.

Austin Longberg, a 2007 Rockford High School graduate has received recognition on the National Dean's List for the Spring Semester of the 2008 academic year. To be named on the list, a student must obtain a 3.500 grade point average on a 4.000 scale and carry at least 12.0 credit hours for the semester.

Austin is home in Rockford, MI for the summer but is still hard at work, taking summer classes at Grand Valley State University and plans to be back at Indiana Wesleyan University this fall.

Often by the time a person's bank determines the original check is counterfeit, their check for the "fees" has already cleared and they are out the amount they sent plus whatever fees their bank charges for a bounced check.

The US Postal Inspectors and Better Business Bureau have seen fake checks that are supposedly drawn on local banks, local manufactures and local retailers, which were high tech copies printed on standard check writing forms. In the past in order to get a certified check you had to have the money in your account to cover it. However, the increased use of computers has made it easier for con-artists to simulate those checks.

If receiving an unexpected check in the mail, ask some logical questions of yourself before depositing it in an account and forwarding money to the requestor. Why did you receive this check? Did you enter a lottery or seek a grant? Why would a bank, manufacturer or retail establishment be sending a partial check and be asking me to send them a check from my own account? Shouldn't they just send me a check with the fees already subtracted out? Does this company, whose name is on the check, actually exist- at the address printed? Check with the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General before cashing any check that seems questionable. Always remember the Michigan Lottery will NEVER expect you to send money to get your prize.

In another current scam going around, you receive a check asking you to be a "Mystery Shopper" of a local establishment. You are to deposit the check, then purchase a money order with part of the funds, and "shop" the establishment you purchased the money order from. You send the money order and your mystery shop results to the company that solicited you to do the shop. The check you received in exchange bounces and you are out your money order.

"In my opinion," states Farage, "you should NEVER cash or deposit an unsolicited check that in exchange expects you to return money to the sender. It just does not make sense and people are becoming victims of these scams all the time." Postmaster Farage will forward to the Postal Inspectors any suspected check scams turned in to him.

Parts of this article are reprinted with permission from Sheriff Terry Johnson of Antrim County.

TWO CUTIE-PIES - (L to R) sisters-in-law Anna and Janene Standfest, from the Grand Traverse Pie Company, serve up fresh fruit pies at the Rockford Farm Market.

Is there anybody out there that doesn't like a fresh homemade fruit pie, especially a cherry pie made with the finest Michigan Montmorency cherries? Don't ask any member of the Standfest family. They love pies so much that Grand Traverse Pie Company pies, their favorites, were and still are a part of every family gathering.

Originally from Traverse City and now residing in Rockford, identical twin brothers Brent and Mark Standfest, along with their wives Anna and Janene, took their love of pies to the next level. Last June 19, (2007) the entire Standfest family, in equal partnership, opened the Grand Traverse Pie Company and Bakery Café on 28th Street across from Woodland Mall. The rest of the Standfest family is composed of: brother Brian and wife Brenda also of Rockford, sister Lisa and husband Scott Grosart, and mom Rosemary and dad Dave. Mom and Dad still reside in Traverse City where Dave, the Rev. Standfest, is the minister at Traverse City New Hope Community Church.

Rev. Standfest relates, "I am proud of being one of the original Grand Traverse Pie Company tasters."

Sisters-in-law Anna and Janene love the Rockford Farm Market, which in past years they attended religiously (no pun intended). They had an epiphany! Why not bring their store's fresh baked pies to the Market? It was a perfect fit. They had a product that wasn't already there whose ingredients are Michigan grown.

This year, for the first time, Market customers can satisfy their pie cravings without all the work and the heating up the kitchen by picking up one (or all) of the large variety of pies they have available at their Market stand.

Homemade fruit pies are what made Grand Traverse Pie Company famous. Baked at the store's Grand Rapids location, the Standfest's use only the freshest and finest Michigan fruit fillings. Combined with a made-from-scratch pie crust they create pies by which all other pies can be measured. From their splendid Cherry Pie and Front Street Apple Pie to their Farmers Market Peach Pie or Lakeshore Berry Pie, they've got a berry and every combination for every pie lover!

Brent Standfest says, "Our vision is to consistently make the finest pies available anywhere. Indeed, we put a heart on top of all of our crumb-topped pies as a reminder to warm your heart with pies."

Being their first year at the Farm Market, their location may change from week to week (Market seniority determines a vendors choice of location). At this Saturday's Market, look for the Grand Traverse Pie Company banner, and stop and say hello to Pastor Dave and wife Rosemary, who are in town to manage the booth. Don't forget to take home a pie or two!

Correction - Last week's Odyssey of the Mind world championship story incorrectly identified Rockford's world-winning team as Valley View. The team was a Valley View team when they took the global win in 2005, but now compete as a North Rockford Middle School team. Our apologies and congratulations again on this unprecedented accomplishment.

GOING PLACES - These boots will cover a lot of ground in the next few weeks. A trip designed to change the lives of boys starts with good footwear. PERFECT FIT - Robert Duncan, retail division district manager helps a young man select the perfect boot for the two-week adventure at a Montana ranch.

The Rockford company donated Merrill boots to six boys, ages 14 to 17, who left the Grand Rapids area on Tuesday, June 17, equipped to hike, work and participate in a four-day wilderness trip.

Mark Douglas, activity therapy specialist for Wedgwood, called the trip a "lifetime opportunity" and said the troubled teens learn life skills and teach responsibility. "These are kids who have had problems, truancy issues, substance abuse issues, home issues," he said. The trip, especially a four-day wilderness backpack trip, teaches them teamwork, self-reliance and responsiblity with a spiritual emphasis. He said the kids were excited to be chosen for the trip. Many have never been out of the state, never been on a horse, never camped in the wilderness. The group will stay on a working cattle ranch of 22,000 acres - nearly double the size of the City of Kentwood.

Trip leader Dave Vermilye said Wedgwood has offered the trip twice before and it has been a huge success. He said the kids are amazed at the size of things out west, the sky, the landscape, as well as the ranch itself.

They enjoy horseback riding, working on the ranch with cattle dogs and the wildlife there - elk, bears, eagles, coyotes. It is a new perspective for youngsters who may be used to a less inspiring atmosphere and who are at a point to make critical life-long decisions about their futures.

A 17-year-old who is making the trip for a second time said he had never been in the mountains before his first trip and there were many surprises. "The hike was harder than I thought it would be," he admitted. Highlights of his first trip included sighting a bear with two cubs, a bobcat, golden eagle and bald eagle. "I learned about leadership and doing what I had to do," he said.

Vermilye said the group travels by van and makes as many stops as possible to sight-see along the way. They travel through the Badlands, which is described as "like another planet" by the 17-year-old and to Mount Rushmore. The trip is possible through the generosity of several patrons, including Eastbrook Construction and the Mic McGraw family. McGraw donates the use of the ranch, which was purchased with such trips in mind and outfitted with a bunkhouse for the boys.

In the past more youths have been able to attend, but the cost of expenses, such as gas, has limited the number of vehicles from two vans to one. "It's a wild ride," Vermilye said.

For more information visit

wedgwood.org.

FRENZ - Squire reporter Nancy Hill is pictured with the Rockford Chamber's most recent luncheon speaker, Rich Zech, owner of Frenz Coffeehouse. Zech advised listeners to stop whining and take action to create an economic reality of your own making.

With his wife Michelle, Zeck owns and operates Frenz Coffee House located at 4 E. Bridge St. (Promenade Building) in downtown Rockford. Additionally, Zeck is an adjunct professor at Cornerstone University teaching business and management courses.

Zeck offered his personal views on business and life as he explored the topic of "National Problem, Local Solution." He advised those in attendance to "think outside your comfort zone." In a call to action to change with the times Zeck said, "It's time to wake up, stop whining and complaining, and actually do something positive to counter the current business climate. If you keep doing what you are doing, you'll get what you're getting," he added.

Zeck said, "Daily, we have allowed constant economic reports of bad times such as; recession, high gas prices, lost homes/foreclosures, lost jobs, etc., to rule our lives. More than ever before people are allowing fear-based ideas to change their life styles, a 'the sky is falling' phenomenon."

He gave as an example the constant litany of storm-based weather forecasting in the local broadcasting media, citing one television station that actually uses the word "storm" as part of the name of their weather forecasting team. Zeck asked the question, "How often, after week-long dire warnings of an impending blizzard do we wake up in the morning to find nothing happened, it passed us by? The results of the flawed forecast are unnecessary school closings and the cancellation of business and church activities, to name three of many."

Zeck believes that we currently have allowed our lifestyles to be changed based upon what may or may not ever happen, that we have allowed non-factual things to rule our lives and the economics of our country.

Granted these are hard time in Michigan but for the majority of people whose businesses, jobs, and homes remain secure Zeck believes the future is now. He challenged those in attendance to make a difference one person or one business at a time. "As individuals we should lead our lives as we always have, not hunker down. For businesses we should think positive and outside the box," said Zeck.

"This can be the greatest summer ever for the Rockford business community. My wife and I have made plans for this to be the best year we've ever had at Frenz Coffee House,"said Zeck. "Rockford is a destination and, in this economy, a great place to go when you don't want to drive a bunch of miles."

Zeck believes the business community needs to be more co-operative and less fearful of one another. Success can be found in a more collaborative atmosphere by finding ways to support each other. As an example, Frenz had made available a large wall mounted LCD screen where other businesses can advertise their goods and services. He is not fearful of competition but rather, believes that businesses try to do too many things, to be too diversified - too thin. "Be the best you can be at what you offer, specialize - more is not always better. I want customers to walk in the door of my store and have an extraordinary experience that will make them feel at home and want to come back," Zeck explains.

"You can feel the pulse of Rockford and it needs to be kept alive. If Rockford succeeds, I and others will succeed, kind of like the trickle-down theory. The future is now, this month, this year in Rockford," concludes Zeck.

Remember, as the Squire quotes Winston Churchill, "We have nothing to fear but fear itself."

Watch the Squire to find out who will be the next Rockford Chamber of Commerce luncheon speaker.

Molly English, daughter of William and Cheryl English, graduated from the Wayne State University School of Medicine on June 3, 2008. Molly is a 1998 graduate of Rockford High School and an alumna of Michigan State University. Molly will complete her residency in emergency medicine at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.

Students in grades second through ninth are invited to a cool Rock and Roll Clinic offered by the YMCA.

The camp will be held Monday through Thursday, June 23 through 26 with a sign-up deadline of Friday, June 20. Hours will be 9:15 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (please pack a lunch each day) or 5 to 8 p.m.

The Rock and Roll Camp will be a unique combination of instruction and hands-on learning in both music and skateboarding.

The camp will be split into two daily sessions, lunch, and free time.

Camp sessions include instructions in both guitar and drums for the ROCK portion of camp and instructions in skateboarding for the ROLL portion of camp. Representatives from Wind, Waves, and Wheels, Inc. will teach skateboarding tips and tricks.

The ROCK portion of camp is geared towards beginners or those with light experience. Thursday is Parent's Day - please feel free to stop in and view the end of the week progress. Preferred times are noon to 1:00 p.m. or 7 to 8 p.m. but it will be open at any time.

Cost is $61 for members, $99 for nonmembers. There is a second child discount; $10 late fee for signing up past deadline. The Wolverine World Wide Family YMCA is located at 6555 Jupiter Ave., Belmont. The phone number is (616) 363-3000.

Locks of Love

Cutting hair for Locks of Love helps those who have lost their hair due to medical treatment look and feel more comfortable during their recovery. Donating to this organization is a selfless way youngsters like Grace can make a real difference in the lives of others.

Students from Our Savior Lutheran School enjoyed a field trip to Herman's Boy and other stops in Rockford recently. The children follow a long line of visitors from the school, which has in turn has welcomed students from the Havemeier family four straight decades. Since 1968 there have been Floyd's children, followed by their children, attending Our Savior. In the past students have followed their Herman's Boy visit with a trip to city hall, the fire department and the Post Office annex.

NEW RETAILER - Kevin Butler, wife Rachelle Butler, daughter Madison, entering seventh grade at East Rockford Middle School, and son Kameren Butler, entering fourth grade at Crestwood.

The playbook for this new retailer includes spirit wear for the entire family, a creative store layout complete with a tailgating section, giving area students the ball through product input and recognition, sustainability, and community involvement.

"The Ram Nation is geared toward athletes, spectators, and community supporters alike," said Kevin Butler, owner. "We want our customers to be satisfied every time they come to our store. Whether it's for a purchase, product customization, or a return, our customer service and policies will unequivocally reflect that satisfaction."

The Ram Nation's husband and wife team, Kevin and Rachelle Butler of Rockford combine his business acumen from 12 years experience in the mortgage industry, at Washington Mutual and her eye for design from being in the cosmetology industry to create this unique retail store with a truck tailgate affixed to the wall in one corner alongside a partial tent awning, similar to a pre-game celebration scene. Store décor also includes a scoreboard, bleachers, and stadium lockers to complete the mood.

"Rockford Public School students are first string players in the store's success," added Butler. "We've got a mural up behind the cash counter that features 13 student athletes from a cross-section of sports, everything from football to lacrosse. Wanting to showcase our area's athletic diversity, we'll change this mural seasonally."

Ram Nation's focus isn't just on the athletes, but on all students with Ram pride. Two five foot vertical banners hang on each side of the store's entrance and spotlight one boy and one girl for two months. Every 60 days, two more students in first through twelfth grades at Rockford Public Schools will be selected randomly from an in-store drawing to be pictured on updated banners, with photography provided by Dan DeWard Photography.

"Even before moving here, we were drawn to downtown Rockford and its schools," continued Butler. "Rockford is one of a handful of places where you can see your neighbors, your kids' friends, and your friends all while just casually walking around downtown. It's a wonderfully welcoming community and that's why we're so glad to give back and keep this good thing going."

The store is one of a half dozen stores and offices in the newly-renovated building that formerly housed the Rockford American Legion. The building was developed to blend in with downtown's period-style design and to strengthen appeal on the eastern side of the shopping district.