CHRISTMAS AT CONKEY’S REPORT
Tuesday, November 23, 2010

The brainchild of Tom Sutter, Chairperson of the Appleton Historical Society, the group put together an event called “Christmas at Conkey’s”. The event was held at the former Conkey’s Book Store on 300 E. College Avenue on Tuesday, November 23, 2010, before and during the Annual Appleton Christmas Parade.

Beginning at 3:00 p.m. on the day of the Christmas Parade the old store was opened up to the public serving candy, cookies and hot chocolate right up to and during the Christmas Parade. Tom Sutter dressed in 1860’s period clothing and personally read Christmas stories to children that assemble.

Mark and Karen Moderson, Jim Richter and Tom Sutter provided historical displays, as well as served guests. Barb Bacon, Christy Marmor, Brian Schneider, Christine Williams, Jack Voight and John Marx manned tables to talk to prospective members and history buffs alike and also serve treats.

The event was a huge success with over 325 cups of hot chocolate served and in excess of 500 visitors enjoying the warmth of the historic store.

This event would not have been possible without the generous support of Conkey’s business and building owner John Zimmerman. Special thanks also to Elizabeth Ringgold of Grubb & Ellis- Pfefferle, The Post Crescent, WHBY, Appleton Downtown Inc., the Appleton Public Library, Gabriel Furniture, Piggly Wiggly, Copps Food Center, Festival Foods, and Simple Simon Bakery.

James L. Richter, Recording Secretary
12-3-10