Since the plaza project began, we have been kicking around name ideas with various boards and groups in an effort to capture the right name for this space. Up until now we have generally called it simply “the plaza” - not very exciting!
When determining the name for a public space, a community will typically look at a significant historical reference, locational reference, or the use of a name from a major donation (typically 50% of the total cost). A group of City staff took all of these points into consideration when coming up with various name options for this space. Our primary focus become something related to the location, a historical reference or maybe even something altogether different. It was also this group’s goal to make sure that not only was this a name that resonated with our residents and visitors, but also helped continue to tell the story of what we all envisioned this space to be.
Please read through the explanations regarding the name options for this space and then select the name that you feel best fits the plaza.
All of these names have the potential to help write the story of what this space can truly be. The sky is certainly the limit for programming opportunities, social gatherings, collaborative efforts between various groups, and the simple act of a residents and visitors coming together to support our local arts, downtown businesses, and the community as a whole.
Thank you for taking the time to help us make this decision.
Name Option #1: "The Exchange on Main"
The idea of bringing people together to exchange ideas, stories, and talents is the premise behind why the plaza is being developed in the first place. The locational reference of “Main” will also provide additional details to those that want to visit the plaza but are unaware of its location.
Name Option #2: "The Connection"
Providing the connection between the already developed and well-programmed Franklin Park space and our ever-improving historic downtown will not only allow for an easier pedestrian flow between these destinations but will promote the social connection of our residents and visitors.
Name Option #3: "The Naberhood"
Franklin Naber was a prominent Shawano citizen. He had many accomplishments in his lifetime, including platting 3 subdivisions within our community, starting the paper mill, and developing several significantly historic downtown buildings. Some of these developments include the building that Driers Pharmacy currently occupies as well as the building that previously housed Senzig’s furniture and stood on the current site of the plaza space. When you think of a neighborhood, especially one in a small town like Shawano, the images of social gatherings, block parties, and friendly front yard conversations between neighbors is what typically comes to mind. Using a play on words, The Naberhood evokes not only the historical reference of Franklin Naber, but also the coming together of a community of neighbors in a social setting.
Name Option #4: "The Naberhood Exchange"
The Naberhood Exchange was derived from two of the previously described names, bringing together a few of the most important factors in creating a name for such a significant public space. The use of the Naber name, who was so vital in creation of Shawano, as well as utilizing the word Exchange to help provide the illustration of the coming together of our community and visitors to exchange ideas, passions, and talents can certainly help set the stage for what this space is being created for.
Name Option #5: "The Main Naberhood"
The Main Naberhood was also a combination of previously mentioned ideas and including the word "Main" to provide locational information to those wanting to utilize the space.
Name Option #6
If none of the 5 names listed above didn't really suit you, please feel free to submit a name to us. If you chose to submit your own name, please provide us with an explanation as to why you feel that your name should be the one selected.
Original source can be found here.
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