Talk of the Town

Honoring Tradition: Appleton’s Memorial Day & Flag Day Parades

This week on Talk of the Town, we welcome back Meghan Warner and Corey Otis with the City of Appleton Parades Committee to talk about two of Downtown Appleton’s most meaningful community traditions, the Memorial Day Parade and the Flag Day Parade.
From honoring service members to celebrating patriotism and community spirit, these annual events continue to bring generations together. Meghan and Corey share what goes into planning the parades, special moments attendees won’t want to miss, exciting updates for this year’s Flag Day Parade, and why these traditions matter now more than ever as America approaches its 250th birthday celebration.

Supporting Local with J. Geiger Consulting

In this episode we continue our Star Supporter Series with Jeff Geiger, owner of J. Geiger Consulting and member of the Downtown Appleton Board of Directors and his son Jordan Geiger who also produces this podcast! 
As a Downtown-based business owner who works closely with small businesses across the community, Jeff shares his perspective on what it means to truly invest in Downtown Appleton.
We talk about supporting local businesses, the impact of community involvement, and why being a Star Supporter is about more than just the dollars, but how getting your name out in the community can help your business. 

Building Community with Fox Communities Credit Union

In this episode we’re kicking off our new Star Supporter series with Heather Wessley, VP of Community Impact, and Luke Freitag, Community Relations Specialist at Fox Communities Credit Union.
We talk about the important work Fox Communities Credit Union does throughout our community, why supporting Downtown Appleton matters to their team, and how local partnerships help create memorable events and experiences for our community.
Tune in to hear why investing in your community makes a lasting impact.

Mental Health Matters: NAMI Fox Valley

We sit down with Maren Peterson, Executive Director of NAMI Fox Valley, to explore how this Downtown based mental health organization supports individuals and families through peer groups, education, and community programs. Learn how NAMI Fox Valley creates safe spaces, offers resources, and makes an impact in our community and how you can get involved or find support.

A New Era at the Castle: Dinosaurs & Discoveries

In this episode of Talk of the Town, we sit down with Chase and Amelia from the History Museum at the Castle to talk about the exciting addition of dinosaurs, fossils, and earth science exhibits from the former Weis Earth Science Museum. Hear what it took to relocate the collection, preserve its mission, and bring a whole new prehistoric experience to Downtown Appleton.

How Appleton Parks & Rec Brings the Community Together

Margaret Collett from City of Appleton Parks & Recreation joins Talk of the Town to talk programs, parks, events and community connections. From Mom Prom and Flicks & Sips to youth sports, aquatics, new playground projects and more, this episode highlights how Parks & Rec creates experiences for all ages! 

Tradition in Every Pour: Inside Calaveras Fine Fusions

In this episode of Talk of the Town, we sit down with Bekki and Edgar Garcia, the owners of Calaveras Fine Fusions in Downtown Appleton. They share how their passion for Mexican traditions, hospitality, and tequila culture inspired them to create a one-of-a-kind destination.
 
We dive into the story behind Calavera’s, the meaning of its name, their curated selection of tequilas and mezcals, handcrafted cocktails, flavorful fusion dishes, and the events that all work together to bring Mexican culture to life in Downtown Appleton.

Always a Holiday: A Look Inside Cleo’s

We’re continuing to ring in the Christmas season in Downtown Appleton with a visit to the bar that celebrates it all year long—Cleo’s Brown Beam. Manager Alicia Andrews joins us to share the story behind this one-of-a-kind holiday haven, the history of Cleo’s, the legendary Dirty Snowball, crowd favorites (including mocktails!), and how they keep the festive energy going every day. We also chat about Cleo’s role in Downtown events and some unforgettable moments from behind the bar. Tune in for a fun, cozy, holiday-spirited episode. 
 
Cleo's 
203 W. College Avenue 
920-739-2288 

Inside the Magic of the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade

We’re kicking off the holidays with an inside look at the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade. Parade Liaison Meghan Warner and Parade Committee Chair Corey Otis join us to share the history, the planning, this year’s Christmas in Toyland theme, and what to expect on parade day—from pre-parade events to spectator tips. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the Midwest’s largest nighttime parade.
 
City of Appleton Parades
Christmas Parade - Tuesday Before Thanksgiving 

Maker to Mentor: Jennifer Nowak of Blue Moon Emporium

Jennifer Nowak started as a creator selling her own designs online—and today, she uplifts dozens of artists at Blue Moon Emporium, a business she recently took over in Downtown Appleton. Hear how her creative journey came full circle and why she’s passionate about supporting other makers.
 
Blue Moon Emporium 
227 E. College Avenue 
920-221-6001