What Locals Like: Jessica Phillips of RK News Hallmark

In this interview for the 2025 Kenosha Area Visitors Guide (out January 2025), we learn more about a local family business from Jessica Phillips, Manager of RK News Hallmark. She’s a member of the family that started the business many decades ago.

RK News Hallmark is located at 5914 B 75th Street in Kenosha. This is a Hallmark Gold Crown store that specializes in cards, gifts, gift wrap, and Keepsake Ornaments. The store also features puzzles, chocolates, candies, jewelry, and other gifts.

Visit Kenosha: What makes your business unique?

Jessica: Our business has been a Kenosha staple since the 1950's. Over the years, we have changed, grown, and adapted to the always changing retail landscape. We originally opened in Downtown Kenosha, and have had to move as we expanded.

Visit Kenosha: This is a family business. How/when did it get its start?

Jessica: My grandfather, Louis, started the business as a newspaper distributer - hence R-K News (Racine - Kenosha News). In 1964, he opened the first retail location. In 1966, we became a Hallmark retailer.

Visit Kenosha: Why do you continue the family legacy?

Jessica:  Not only do I have a passion for the business, I cannot explain how much I love the family atmosphere of the store. For as long as I can remember, the store has been my second home - some weeks spending more time in the store than at home! My sister and I have such wonderful memories of playing at the store when growing up, and now my own daughter and son get to experience the same.

Visit Kenosha: What do you like about being a business owner?

Jessica: It's hard to pick one thing, but right now in this season of life, I would say the freedom. I have two young kids, and it is a blessing to be able to take time off to spend with them. I often work from home, but am able to make my own schedule. Freedom isn't something all business owners feel all the time, we have worked many, many long weeks and overcome so many obstacles to be in the good place we are currently. It is not something I take for granted.

Visit Kenosha: What's your favorite season here? Why?

Jessica: I love the summer! There are so many activities around Kenosha for the kids. It's so nice to be able to get them outside and experience all the fun things Kenosha has to offer.

Visit Kenosha: What is your favorite thing(s) about Kenosha?

Jessica: I love so much about Kenosha, but one of my favorite things lately has been the libraries. My daughter, Evie, has loved books and libraries since she's been little, and all of the libraries in Kenosha are fabulous! Not only are the buildings nice, but the librarians are so kind to the kids and really have a passion for what they do. I also love all the unique and delicious food options we have here. The restaurants have really been working hard to provide great, local experiences for customers.

Visit Kenosha: What are your favorite activities to do in Kenosha?

Jessica: We love visiting the libraries, visiting the museums, going to parks, walking & exploring down by the lake, eating downtown - and of course getting ice cream afterwards!

Visit Kenosha: What do your customers/visitors say about Kenosha? Your business?

Jessica: Kenosha is a large city with a small town feel. It is a great place to raise a family. The beautiful lakefront is a great place to visit, and there's often events downtown. Customers love our shop because it feels like family. We have a warm and welcoming environment, and you can often hear our employees joking and laughing together. Customers love the active push we've been making to be more involved with the community and events.

Visit RK News Hallmark:

5914 B 75th Street in Kenosha

(262) 694-4055

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