Issue link: http://www.insightdigital.biz/i/140775
renovations will be a great addition and a common space downtown. She says that she and her co-workers hope the renovations will play as an extension of their office space since the building overlooks the plaza. "I'm happy the city is investing in the downtown area and it's really nice to see it growing and expanding, so I think that this is going to be a really great addition," Yahr says. But Yahr admits that it needed some work. "I don't want to say that it was an eyesore, but it was in rough shape and it was just starting to become beat up," she says. According to Stephany, the goal with creating a new icon for downtown is creating an image that leaves a lasting impression. "[Houdini Plaza] is going to leave that lasting impression of activity that is progressive and clean and safe, and it's going to help attract businesses as w w w. i n s i g h t o n b u s i n e s s . c o m "The renovation will position this plaza for a higher level of use by the community, and it will be our community's front porch and gathering space." – Karen Harkness, director of community and economic development for the City of Appleton well," Stephany says. The first two Summer Concert Series in June were to be held at Jones Park before the renovations were completed, Stephany says. A grand reopening ceremony is tentatively planned for July 3, along with the third Summer Concert series show with RPM. Yahr says she and her family always attend the Summer Concert Series. "We have so many talented musicians in the city that I think it's really a fun time to just sit and relax in the summer." Cory Chisel, a native of Appleton and local musician who recently went on tour with Norah Jones, started the Mile of Music event, which will bring 80-plus bands to perform Aug. 8 to 11 throughout downtown Appleton. This event also will use the refurbished Houdini Plaza, as well as bring people in and out of the local businesses. "As a community, we need to embrace the downtown as a whole district and I think the plaza is going to pull that all together," Stephany says. J u l y 2 013 • Insight | 43