The Great Recession caused the downfall of Midwest Express Airlines, but the defunct airline is trying to make a comeback – and would-be proprietors are using promotional products to generate awareness, excitement and funds.

Former Midwest Airlines Vice President Greg Aretakis is spearheading efforts from a group of passionate supporters who are committed to re-establishing Midwest Express Airlines as a premier airline based in Milwaukee.

Made from 100% polyester, the Midwest Express Callaway Polo features a three-button placket, self-collar and sleek horizontal stripes that are crafted with a light hue.

To bolster the campaign, the group has launched an online web store where supporters can purchase logoed apparel, drinkware, travel items and more.

“Our goal is to fund this airline locally, which will ensure a long-term commitment to growing and keeping this service in Milwaukee,” the organizing group said in a statement.

This 22 oz. double wall stainless steel vacuum water bottle features a screw-on lid that has a built-in, light-up Bluetooth speaker that allows for music playing and hands-free calls, including conference calls.

Midwest Express-branded items in the webstore include men’s and women’s polos, long-sleeve half-zip outerwear, a classic golf hat, mugs, a can cooler, a pint glass, a shot glass, a whiskey tumbler, a stainless steel water bottle, a copper vacuum water bottle that features a Bluetooth speaker in the lid, a wireless charging stand, a luggage handle wrap, a duffel bag, backpacks and more.

According to the airline’s supporters group, Midwest Express was in business, based out of Milwaukee, for more than 25 years. At its peak, the airline that offered leather seats and fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies flew nonstop to more than 50 cities and was “rated one of the best airlines in the industry,” supporters say. Unfortunately, the terrible recession of 2008 clipped the airline's wings, which led to an acquisition that ultimately saw the Midwest Express name and service shuttered.

The water-resistant Urban Backpack has an interior laptop pocket that measures 12"x 12" x 15" and three exterior pockets, including two for bottles and one for quick-access items.