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Independence Message from the Mayor |
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Today and throughout the coming weekend, millions of Americans will gather to celebrate our Independence Day.
In 1776, 56 patriots traded everything they had; their property, their families, their lives - everything for the sacred honor to stand firm in declaring independence from a tyrant and a country more than 3,000 miles away. These men were mostly well-educated men of means. They didn't do this for fame or fortune. They did it because they believed a free society should be able to govern themselves and take care of themselves and their fellow countrymen. These 56, formerly British subjects - now American heroes, did this knowing full well that they were committing an act of treason, punishable by death. Five of these men were captured by the British and tortured before they were killed. Four of them lost their sons by death or capture in the Revolutionary War. Still nine others died from wounds or hardships during the same war.
It's difficult to imagine what life would be like today had the original 13 colonies not stood together, unified against tyranny. These 56 patriots were the first American heroes, with scores more to follow. May God bless them for their vision, their unselfish bravery and their foresight. Let us never forget their courage and their sacrifice, along with the sacrifices of so many of the following generations who have stood to protect these freedoms that so many don't have, and some take for granted.
As you celebrate with your friends and family, keep those in mind that cannot be with their family because they wear the uniform and stand to defend us and from those that would destroy us and our way of life.
Pray for those that have so selflessly made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedoms.
I thank all my fellow veterans that wore the uniform in defense of our country. Be proud of your contribution.
In closing, I'd like to mention our friends and neighbors who have been affected by the recent flooding. This Independence Day is going to be most memorable to them as they go through the long process of recovery. I ask all who are able to help them in any way possible, whether it be by generously giving of your time, talent or treasure; or by simply keeping them in your thoughts and prayers.
God Bless you all, and God Bless America.
Patrick Degen
Mayor
City of Emmetsburg
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Fun on the Fourth at Harrison Park
Join the Emmetsburg Chamber for a fantastic Independence Day celebration at Harrison Park in Emmetsburg! Here's what's happening:
- Pickleball Tournament: 12:00 PM
Pickleball tournament is free to enter! To register, please contact the Emmetsburg Chamber of Commerce at (712) 852-2283.
- Mayor Patrick Degen's Address: 1:00 PM
- 21 Gun Salute and Taps by the VFW: Immediately following the Mayor's Address
- Community Band Concert: After the 21 Gun Salute and Taps
Bring your family, friends, and patriotic spirit for a day filled with fun, sports, and music. We look forward to celebrating with you!
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Please keep an eye on the Emmetsburg Chamber of Commerce Facebook page for weather-related updates. |
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Outdoor Concert at The Shores
Join us on the veranda/greenspace at The Shores at Five Island for live music featuring KC Cameron. KC Cameron and his band will be rocking the lake from 5:00-8:00pm. Bring your lawn chairs for the greenspace or pull up and listen from your boat on the lake. You don't want to miss this! Everyone is welcome to stick around after the live music ends until the fireworks start at dusk.
Sponsored by Iowa Trust & Savings Bank, Hughes, Brennan, & Wirtz, Forge & Build, and Creative Stitches
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Fireworks
This year the Emmetsburg fireworks display will be on Saturday, July 6. Fireworks will be shot off from the golf course, so all golfers must be off the course at 2:00pm.
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Local Businesses Make a Splash with Generous Donations for New Community Splash Pad |
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Local businesses are showing steams of support for the splash pad project in Emmetsburg. Thanks to recent donations from POET, Palo Alto County Health System (PACHS), Lost Island Wind, Hughes Health Mart Pharmacy, and community members, the City of Emmetsburg has now passed the halfway mark of its $200,000 public fundraising goal. “These substantial contributions bring the city closer to its goal of creating a vibrant, fun-filled space for families and children to enjoy,” said Kim Kibbie, City Administrator.
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POET Sponsors Cattail Water Feature with $15,000 Donation |
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L to R: Gretchen Reichter, City Marketing & Retail Coordinator; Kim Kibbie, City Administrator; Ben Gustafson, POET; Pat Martini, City Councilman; Patrick Degen, Mayor |
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Last week, Ben Gustafson of POET presented the City of Emmetsburg with a $15,000 check for the splash pad project at Soper Park. The donation will fund one of two large interactive cattail water features located in the all-ages splash area. POET’s ongoing support of community projects highlights the vital role of local businesses in building a thriving and attractive community. |
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PACHS Sponsors Fish Water Feature with $10,000 Donation |
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L to R:
Kim Kibbie, City Administrator; Jonathan Moe, PACHS CEO, Anna Merideth, PACHS Marketing & Foundation Director; Patrick Degen, Mayor; Pat Martini, City Councilman; Gretchen Reichter, City Marketing & Retail Coordinator |
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A $10,000 donation from PACHS will fund a fish water feature located in the toddler-friendly splash area. Representatives from PACHS expressed their excitement about the project, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing recreational opportunities and fostering community well-being. “The new Splash Pad will be a great addition for the community of Emmetsburg” stated PACHS CEO Jonathan Moe. “We are happy to play a part in helping the Splash Pad project reach its financial goals. This will promote health and wellness for all those who live here.” |
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"Rapids Level" Donation from Lost Island Wind |
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The Lost Island Wind Project (a.k.a Steelhead Americas, the North American development arm of Vestas) has made waves in the community by donating $5,000 to the city's splash pad project, a contribution categorized as a "Rapids Level" donation.
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"Stream" of Support from Hughes Pharmacy |
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L to R: Julie Miller, City Councilwoman;
Patrick Degen, Mayor; Steve Hoyman, Hughes Health Mart Pharmacy Owner; Mike Hermansen, City Councilman; Gretchen Reichter, City Marketing & Retail Coordinator
; Pat Martini, City Councilman; Brian Malm, City Councilman |
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The community spirit was evident prior to Monday’s City Council meeting as Hughes Health Mart Pharmacy, a local business known for its community engagement and support, donated a generous $2,500 (Stream Level Donation) to the city for the highly-anticipated splash pad project.
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Gound has officially been broken at Soper Park for the splash pad. Following a public hearing on the proposed splash pad on June 10th, the Emmetsburg City Council approved plans, specifications, and the estimated construction costs of the 2024 Soper Park Splash Pad Project and accepted the bid from Woodruff Construction in the amount of $583,388.77.
If you would like to put a permanent stamp on this project with your company or family name, tax-deductible donations may be dropped off at or mailed to Emmetsburg City Hall, Attn: Splash Pad, 2021 Main Street, PO Box 417, Emmetsburg, IA 50536. Checks may be payable to ECDC. Additional information about the splash pad project may be found at www.emmetsburg.com/splashpad. For in-kind donation inquiries or corporate sponsorship opportunities, please contact Kim Kibbie, City Administrator, at 712-852-4030.
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Application for $10,000 Business Innovation Grant Now Open |
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Entrepreneurs looking to open or grow their business in Emmetsburg have the chance to get a boost, thanks to a grant from the City of Emmetsburg. Beginning July 1st, innovative entrepreneurs can apply to get a $10,000 grant to support their business startup or expansion plans through the City’s new Business Innovation Grant.
Eligible business projects include business startups, expansions of existing businesses (i.e. new product or services, physical expansion or capital project), acquisition of an existing business (i.e. retirement sale), or business relocation or expansion to Emmetsburg. Eligible project expenses include, but are not limited to, land or building acquisition, business acquisition, engineering and design, site development, construction or renovation, materials, inventory, equipment, marketing, and legal fees.
Applications opened on Monday, July 1st. Interested entrepreneurs must submit their completed application and required attachments by Friday, August 16th. A panel of representatives in economic development, small business, government, and finance will confidentially review and score applications. Up to three candidates will be invited to present their business projects to a small interview committee in late August, and a winner will be selected in September. Application materials and additional program information is available online at www.emmetsburg.com/business-grant.
For more information and questions, please contact Gretchen Reichter with the City of Emmetsburg Economic Development Department at greichter@emmetsburg.com or 712-852-2067.
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Meet the New Director - Alex Johnson
I'm Alex Johnson, the new Executive Director for the Chamber, and we have some great things yet to come for the summer months! |
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Live After Six
Another Live After Six concert will be held on July 18th starting at 6:30pm on the Veranda at The Shores at Five Island. The show will feature the music of Dave Rowley and Ryan Sather, and is sponsored by The Dental Loft, as well as Thul Law and TLC Properties. Live After Six will conclude for the season on August 15th with the music of Midland Vibe.
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BrewFest
Another great event on the horizon is the 8th Annual Brewfest! This event is taking place at Soper Park on Saturday, August 10th. The event will feature sampling of local breweries' products, as well as a homebrew competition! If you would like to enter in to the Homebrew contest, please call me at the Chamber, the number is 712-852-2283. You can also enjoy food from the Kossuth County Cattlemen's Group, and live music from Lone Tree Revival!
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I've had such a great first few months on the job, and I've had the pleasure of meeting a lot of you, but if you haven't, please stop by the Chamber of Commerce and say hello!
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Save the Date: Second Annual Harvest Kickoff Party @ The Shores
Friday, August 2 |
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Join Big Time Grain Co. and Farm Rock at the second annual Harvest Kickoff Party at The Shores at Five Island on Friday, August 2nd! Farm Rock will kick off the evening at 5:30pm, and Big Time Grain Co. will hit the stage at 8:00pm.
Everyone knows and loves a local farmer. That's why we are inviting everyone out to our second annual Harvest Kickoff Party. Come enjoy an evening of live country music on the beautiful shore of Five Island Lake and celebrate our local farmers as they prepare to head out to the fields for the 2024 harvest.
Come by car or come by boat. Bring your lawn or bag chairs and enjoy the music from the veranda or greenspace, or bring your boat and listen live from Five Island Lake!
About Big Time Grain Co.
Bret and Chad grew up in small town Colby, KS on wheat and bean farm. Tractors, hoeing weeds and cleaning dad's shop made up most days. Country and folk music made up a big part of the family culture with everyone on their mom's side playing multiple instruments. Bret learned bass and Chad guitar and soon were traveling all over the midwest playing in rock bands. After years of playing together and separate the Bourquin brothers came together with the inception of BTGC and haven't looked back. Combine the passion and creativity of the brothers along with Colin Ridge on bass and Ty Unes on drums, and you get a rock solid energetic version of country and country rock sure to keep you engaged and excited to be part of their family.
About Farm Rock
Farm Rock formed in March 2011 as a brand new country rock band out of North Central Iowa. With a perfect combination of talented veteran musicians, highlighted by Nashville recording artist Kendall Obermier, Farm Rock is working towards taking the Midwest by storm. Farm Rock is set to deliver the complete show for its fans with songs from Jason Aldean, Brad Paisley, Bryan Adams, John Mellencamp, and many more. Jump on the bandwagon now, because it's not a party until it's a Farm Rock party!
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Riviera Theatre Adds New Showtimes
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Now Showing Feature Films on Select Week Nights
There's something for everyone at the Riviera Theatre in Emmetsburg! The theater just expanded its feature film dates to include Wednesday and Thursday evening showings. You can now catch the feature film on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday, and Thursday!
- Friday 7:00 pm
- Saturday 7:00 pm
- Sunday 2:00 pm
- Wednesday 1:00 pm
- Wednesday 7:00 pm
- Thursday 7:00 pm
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Inspirational Movies from the Bible - Showing Sunday & Tuesday
The theater is continuing its Inspirational Movie Series on Sunday evenings at 5:00pm, with the exception of the second Sunday of the month, and Tuesday evenings at 7:00pm. The Riviera is presented inspirational stories from the Bible as depicted by the famous Sight and Sound Theater in Branson, MO. There is no admission fee to these films, but those wishing to help the theater continue these types of programs are encouraged to give a free-will donation at the theater box office.
Inspirational Movie Schedule
- July: Noah
- August: Samson
- September: David
- October: Ruth
- November: I Heard the Bells
- December: Miracle of Christmas
- January: Jonah
The Inspirational Movie Series is sponsored by Palo Alto County Healthy System, Iowa Trust & Savings Bank, Emmetsburg Municipal Utilities, Hughes Pharmacy, and Greg and Diane Hoyman.
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Classics are Back!
Classics are back at the Riviera Theatre! Enjoy a family-friendly classic movie from the 1930s-1960s on the second Sunday of each month at 5:00pm from July to December. Admission is free!
Classic at the Riviera Schedule
- July 14: The Music Man (1961)
- August 11: Lilies of the Field (1963)
- September 8: Going My Way (1944)
- October 13: Charade (1963)
- November 10: Road to Utopia (1945)
- December 8: Shop Around the Corner (1940)
Classics are sponsored by the Palo Alto Arts Council with a grant from the Arthur & Audrey Smith Foundation.
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Community Support of the Riviera Theatre
If you are passionate about keeping our theater in town, please consider a donation to support the Riviera. A Friends of the Riviera Fund has been established with Emmetsburg Community Development Corporation (ECDC) to allow the community to support the theater and ensure that it's able to keep operating in Emmetsburg. Checks may be made payable to ECDC and delivered or mailed to City Hall: 2021 Main Street, P.O. Box 417, Emmetsburg, IA 50536. Please designate "Riviera Theatre" on the check memo. Donation receipts will be provided for these tax-deductible donations.
All donations of $250 or more will be recognized on the screen at the theater as "Friends of the Riviera Theatre." Donations of $400 or more will be recognized as "Major Supports."
Community members may also support the theater by attending movies, purchasing concessions, and/or leaving a free-will donation or check at the theater box office of any amount.
Thank you for your support!
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Five Island Golf Tournaments
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Don't miss the golf tournaments scheduled this summer at Five Island Golf!
- July 8 - Qualifying begins for the Horse Race
- July 13 - Firemen's Tournament
- July 27 - Men's Open
- August 2 - Horse Race Calcutta
- August 4 - Horse Race Tournament
- August 24 - Booster Club Tournament
- September 9 - Over 50 Tournament
Call Five Island Golf at 712-852-3422 ext. 2 or email Alissa at akliegl@emmetsburg.com for more tournament and registration details.
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Golf Reminder: Please sign in inside before golfing. Thanks! |
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West Elementary Facility Update
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Emmetsburg Community School District Purchases Property for Potential New School
The Emmetsburg School Board has agreed to purchase property identified as the preferred location for a new elementary school, contingent upon the outcome of a fall bond referendum.
The $501,600 agreement, approved by board members on June 27, would transfer ownership of approximately 24 acres to the Emmetsburg Community School District.
The undeveloped property is east of Iowa Lakes Community College and south of College Drive. The site was chosen by board members for its ample space to accommodate a new school and future expansion, close proximity to the high school, and road access that addresses current safety and traffic issues experienced at West Elementary School.
“After investing over a year studying the challenges at West Elementary School and considering various project options, this agreement is the next step in our mission to provide future generations of young learners with a high-quality facility that supports 21st century learning,” said Superintendent Cory Jenness.
West Elementary School, built in 1952, requires more than $6 million in immediate facility and equipment upgrades. This includes improvements to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; upgrades to safety and security systems; new classroom finishes; and parking lot repairs. The school’s playground is one of the smallest in northwest Iowa based on an enrollment of 308 students.
Project architects estimate that a new 65,000 square-foot school for grades PK-4 would cost $29.75 million. If constructed, ECSD would retain ownership of West Elementary, leasing space for much needed daycare services in the community.
The 2013 addition at West Elementary, which includes the gymnasium, offices, kitchen, and cafeteria, would continue to be utilized by ECSD.
Two elections requiring at least 60% voter approval are necessary for the district to complete the land sale and build a new elementary school. The first, on September 10, will seek approval of a ballot question for the November 5 election. The second vote, on November 5, will ask voters to consider a general obligation bond.
The decision to pursue the construction of a new elementary school was unanimously accepted by the School Board following a recommendation in April from a Community Task Force that included district residents.
For more information on ECSD’s facility needs, the project’s tax impact, and answers to frequently asked questions, visit https://www.emmetsburgbond.org.
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Emmetsburg Outdoor Pool Initiative
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A committee of community members was formed to investigate the interest and feasibility of an outdoor pool in Emmetsburg. This committee, the Emmetsburg Outdoor Pool Initiative, worked with Waters Edge Aquatic Design to create a concept design for a future outdoor pool in our community. The goal of the committee was to create a realistic, basic outdoor pool plan for a town our size.
Upon investigating possible locations and collaborating with the City of Emmetsburg and Waters Edge Aquatic Design, the committee determined that the best location for the outdoor pool would be at the old middle school football field south of Harrison Park. It is centrally located and is city owned.
Waters Edge Aquatic Design created a concept design and provided construction and operation cost estimates. Waters Edge Aquatic Design estimated the technical and construction services for this design to be $4 million for the total project cost.
The Emmetsburg Outdoor Pool Initiative presented the concept design to Emmetsburg City Council and has requested the City of Emmetsburg to consider a public measure vote on the November 2025 City Election Ballot to support a general obligation bond not to exceed $4 million for an outdoor pool in Emmetsburg. No action has been taken at this time.
Community members may reach out to the Emmetsburg Outdoor Pool Initiative committee members with any questions:
- Whitney Bjustrom
- Kelly Klaus
- Kyle Caven
- Morgan Grimm
- Molly Leman
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Kind Comments from Irish Dignitary, Cormack Devlin
Both Jennifer and I had a wonderful time in Emmetsburg. The people were so warm, kind and generous. We thoroughly enjoyed spending time with you all. You went out of your way to welcome us into your city which meant so much to us both. |
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Slow "No Wake" Zone - 5 MPH Speed Limit
As a result of recent heavy rainfall, the level of Five Island Lake has risen, posing a significant threat to shoreline erosion, damages to property, and public safety on Five Island Lake. A Slow "No Wake" Zone is in effect on Five Island Lake until further notice. "Slow no-wake zone" speed is defined as the slowest speed the vessel can travel while allowing the operator to maintain directional control of the vessel to produce the minimum water surface turbulence. Boaters are reminded to use caution and courtesy while operating vessels on Five Island Lake and other area waterways during the present high-water conditions. |
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City & EMU Closed July 4
Emmetsburg City Hall and Emmetsburg Municipal Utilities will be closed on Thursday, July 4 in honor of Independence Day. |
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July 4 Garbage Pickup
The Thursday, July 4 garbage route will be picked up on Friday, July 5. |
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City Fireworks - Saturday, July 6
This year the Emmetsburg fireworks display will be on Saturday, July 6. Fireworks will be shot off from the golf course, so all golfers must be off the course at 2:00pm. |
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Use of Fireworks Prohibited
The City of Emmetsburg does not allow the use of fireworks within City Limits. The sale of Fireworks in Emmetsburg is allowed as long as the vendor meets the State and City requirements. The City has the right to enforce restrictions on the sale of fireworks, but may not prohibit the sale of fireworks altogether. However, the use of fireworks is prohibited under Emmetsburg City Code 41.12. A violation of the Emmetsburg Code for using fireworks may result in criminal charges. When you purchase fireworks, you must take them outside the City Limits to use. Please enjoy a safe and healthy 4th of July celebration, and please abide by Emmetsburg City Code 41.12. For more information or questions, contact the Emmetsburg Police Department at 712-852-2424. |
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Nuisances & Lawn Care
The City of Emmetsburg reminds residents and property owners that they are required to keep all weeds and grasses cut to avoid nuisance complaints. As you mow, please keep grass clippings and yard debris off streets in order to help keep our drains and storm sewer clear and functioning. |
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Fence & Building Permits
Planning to build this year? Applications for Fence & Hedge Permit and Applications for Building Permits must be submitted and approved before any construction begins. Application forms are available at www.emmetsburg.com/applicationspermits/. If you have any questions, please contact City Hall at 712-852-4030.
Planning to Dig?
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Water Quality Report
The 2024 Water Quality Report for Emmetsburg Municipal Utilities is now available online. |
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Keep Emmetsburg Beautiful
Warm weather and rains have been the perfect conditions for weeds - they're even growing in the concrete! Help keep our community and downtown beautiful this summer season by taking an extra moment to pull pesky weeds or pick up trash while walking around the community and downtown district. |
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Kossuth/Palo Alto County Economic Development Corporation (K/PACEDC) Executive Director
K/PACEDC is conducting a search for a top-tier, high-performing Economic Development Executive Director. This position offers an exciting opportunity to engage with local businesses, government, and community leaders, and implement K/PACEDC's strategic plan for community and economic development within the two-county region.
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Free Classic Movie at the Riviera Theatre
2nd Sunday at 5:00 PM @ Riviera Theatre
Sponsored by the Palo Alto Arts Council with funding from the Smith Foundation |
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Video Game Hangout
Every Monday from 1:00-3:00 PM @ Emmetsburg Public Library, Room 14
Each week, different games from old to new will be offered along with light snacks. |
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Bingo with Horizons Unlimited
Every Monday at 1:30 PM @ First UMC Family Life Center |
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Farmers Market
Every Tuesday from 1:00-5:00 PM @ Emmetsburg Courthouse Square (10th Street)
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Popcorn-Time Movie
Every Tuesday at 1:00 PM @ Emmetsburg Public Library, Room 17
Popcorn is served with the show. Contact the library for titles. |
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Food Pantry
1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month from 5:00-6:30 PM @ Grace Baptist Church |
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LEGO Club
Every Wednesday from 3:30-5:00 PM @ Emmetsburg Public Library, Room 14
All the LEGOs you will need and a snack are provided. Open to all ages, and larger DUPLO blocks are available for the very young. |
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TOPS® Meeting
Every Wednesday at 4:30 PM @ Iowa Welcome Center |
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Tea Time Cinema
Every Thursday at 2:00 PM @ Emmetsburg Public Library
Classic movie is shown + tea is served. Free and open to all.
Call library for titles showing and more info: 712-852-4009.
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Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
Every Thursday at 7:30 PM @ Family Life Center |
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Pokémon Club
Every Friday from 3:45-5:00 PM @ Emmetsburg Public Library, Room 14
A light snack is provided. Open to all ages. |
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TCG Mania
Every Friday from 5:00-6:30 PM @ Emmetsburg Public Library
Each week the library offers a place to play for another hour and a half on Friday. Games commonly played include: Digimon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Lorcana, and others. Don't think our group will play your game? Try us! Light snacks are offered. For all ages. |
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Farmers Market
Every Saturday from 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM @ Emmetsburg Courthouse Square (10th Street)
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This newsletter is published by the City of Emmetsburg Marketing & Development Coordinator |
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