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Holiday Message from the Mayor |
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As I do every Christmas season, I like to reflect on the blessings bestowed on me over the past year. I also renew my commitment to helping those less fortunate whenever I can. During the coming year, I encourage all who read this to find a way to do the same. It's always a good feeling to be a positive influence in someone else's life.
I'd like to take a moment to thank all those people who give their time and talent to serve on the various boards in our community. Without them, not much would get done, and because of their efforts, we're able to provide many of the services we all enjoy.
We are fortunate to have many dedicated City and EMU employees who are here to serve us day in and day out. I appreciate their efforts, as do many others, I’m sure.
Please make an effort to support our local businesses. They're the backbone of any community and are eager to serve us all.
Many of us happily remember the good times and of course, hope for more in the coming year. Unfortunately, with the good times come the bad. Remember those who have passed away over the past year. Keep their families and friends in your thoughts and prayers as they spend their first Christmas without their loved ones.
Christmas and the New Year are always a great time to get together with friends and family. Enjoy those times and keep in mind those who may not have family and friends around or who just need a little extra support.
Please keep in mind our military men and women who will not be able to spend time with their families this year because of their commitment to defending our freedoms. Always remember their sacrifice and the sacrifices of those that served before them.
I wish you and your family many blessings this Christmas Season, and for the New Year, an Irish wish:
"May your troubles be less and your blessings be more, and nothing but happiness come through your door."
Patrick Degen
Mayor
City of Emmetsburg
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Shop Small and Win!
Shop Small Season Challenge |
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This is the last week to participate in the Emmetsburg Shop Small Season Challenge. Show your support for our local businesses this week and complete Shop Small challenges. How many challenges can you complete in the final days?!
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The City of Emmetsburg and Emmetsburg Chamber of Commerce developed the Shop Small Season Challenge to encourage residents to "shop small" and "shop local" throughout the entire holiday season. While the calendar gives daily ideas for eating, shopping, and supporting local business, challenges can be completed in any order or on any day while doing business in Emmetsburg. Simply have the store manager or staff sign inside the designated box when completing each challenge.
It pays to shop local! The more you shop, the more you could win!
- If you complete 1-5 challenges, your name will be placed in a drawing to win $25 in Chamber bucks.
- If you complete 6-10 challenges, your name will be placed in a drawing to win $50 in Chamber bucks.
- If you complete 11-15 challenges, your name will be placed in a drawing to win $100 in Chamber bucks.
- If you complete more than 16+ challenges, your name will be placed in a drawing to win $200 in Chamber bucks.
Printed copies of the Shop Small Season Calendar are available at the Emmetsburg Chamber of Commerce and local businesses. You can also download the calendar and print it at home. Remember to turn it in at the Chamber office by Friday, January 3 for your chance to win!
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Thanks for Making a Splash in 2024! |
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As the year comes to a close, consider "making a splash" in our community by contributing to the Soper Park Splash Pad project — a highly requested amenity that will be a vibrant and inclusive space for families and children to enjoy during the warmer months. This project would not be possible without the generous support of local businesses, residents, and community organizations.
We're almost there! To date the City of Emmetsburg has raised just over $500,000 of the total $585,000 fundraising goal. It's the perfect time to give back and support initiatives that make our community a better place. Every contribution counts, whether big or small.
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Tax-deductible donations may be dropped off or mailed to City Hall, with checks payable to Emmetsburg Community Development Corporation (ECDC).
2021 Main Street
PO Box 417
Emmetsburg, IA 50536
For donation inquiries, corporation sponsorship opportunities, or more information on the project, please contact Kim Kibbie, City Administrator, at 712-852-4030 or visit www.emmetsburg.com/splashpad.
Thank you to all who have donated. You "made a splash" in Emmetsburg, and we can't thank you enough!
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Waterfall Level Donors - $25,000+
- Community State Bank
- Emmetsburg Municipal Utilities (in-kind)
- Iowa Trust & Savings Bank
- Palo Alto County Gaming Development Corporation
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Geyser Level Donors - $10,000-24,999
- Arthur & Audrey Smith Foundation
- Bolton & Menk
- Palo Alto County Health System
- POET
- Dr. Frank and Marit Veltri Family
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Rapids Level Donors - $5,000-9,999
- Dan Cooper Builders (in-kind)
- Iowa Lakes Electric Members Charitable Foundation
- Lost Island Wind
- Eric & Mary Woodford
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Stream Level Donors - $2,500-4,999
- Big Dreams N Ice Creams
- Greg & Diane Hoyman
- Hughes Health Mart Pharmacy
- Mikel & Megan Jones
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Ripple Level Donors - $1,000-2,499
- Lance Clark Family
- Emmetsburg Kiwanis Club
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Additional Donors
- James & Sandra Batcheller
- Angie Beem
- Jim & Judy Crawford
- Roger & Cindy Daum
- Rick & Julie Elbert
- James & Joan Goodlaxson
- Kirk & Denise Haack
- Randy & Nancy Janssen
- Mark & Valerie Johnson & Family
- Scott & Kim Kibbie
- George & Betty Merrill
- Laure Miller
- Ned & Mary Ellen Munn
- Shane & Janet Noll
- Dan & Diane Noonan
- Dave & Laurie Schneider
- Pat & Patricia Schumacher
- The Print Shop & Palo Alto Promotions
- Shear Attitude
- Glen & Diane Smith
- Mike Moran & Nori Van Den Hurk
- Judy Weis
- Dorothy Zech
- Kimberly Zech & Peter Gong
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$10,000 Veltri Family Donation Sponsors Turtle Feature |
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L to R: Gretchen Reichter, City Marketing & Retail Coordinator; Patrick Degen, Mayor; Dr. Frank and Marit Veltri; Kim Kibbie, City Administrator; Brian Malm, City Councilman; Pat Martini, City Councilman |
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In July, Dr. Frank and Marit Veltri presented the City with a $10,000 donation for the Soper Park splash pad project. The generous donation — a fun nod to the Veltris' ten grandchildren — will sponsor the turtle above-ground water feature located in the toddler-friendly area of the splash pad. |
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Bolton & Menk Sponsors Seaweed Splash Feature with Geyser Level Donation |
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Bolton & Menk, Inc., the contracted engineering firm for the City of Emmetsburg, has played an integral part in the design, development, planning, and construction of the Soper Park splash pad project. A substantial $15,000 donation from the firm will sponsor the seaweed above-ground water feature in the all-ages area of the splash pad. |
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"Stream" of Support for Inclusivity |
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Community support for the splash pad has been evident throughout the fundraising and construction process. Many families are eager to enjoy the new community amenity in 2025. Mikel and Megan Jones are especially excited for the splash pad and have demonstrated their support with a meaningful $2,500 donation. "Our family is excited for our community to have a water feature that can be enjoyed by all ages and abilities," said Megan. "Our late son Luke couldn't participate in many things due to his disabilities, but a splash pad is something we could have done together, and his siblings Lucy and Louis will be able to use the splash pad for many years to come.
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Dreaming Big 'N' Making a Splash |
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L to R: Brian Malm, City Councilman; Megan Jones, City Finance Director; Mike Hermansen, City Councilman;
Kim Kibbie, City Administrator; Lance and CareyAnne Clark; Gretchen Reichter, City Marketing & Retail Coordinator; Pat Martini, City Councilman |
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From ice cream trucks to new community amenities, dreams are coming to life in Emmetsburg! In September, the City of Emmetsburg accepted a $2,500 splash pad donation from Lance and CareyAnne Clark, owners of the new Big Dreams N Ice Creams truck. We're thrilled to have both amenities in our community. What's more nostalgic than splashing around and enjoying ice cream in the summer? We can't wait! Lance is excited to have a splash pad for the community and kids to enjoy. He knows it will be a family-oriented area, and expressed that the more activities at the park, the better.
Owning an ice cream truck was a "big dream" of Lance's for years. He has continually been inspired by the people, kids, and classic ice cream truck music. After visiting New York City in March, he decided it was time to go for it. Lance said it's about doing something positive for the community, and he's putting his words into action. The Clarks have been "making a splash" in the community beyond the splash pad. Big Dreams N Ice Creams has fueled causes from booster clubs and after prom fundraisers to personal causes. The Clarks genuinely care about the community, and Lance expressed that the most fun and rewarding part of owning the ice cream truck so far has been seeing children's excitement and memories being made. People are thankful, and families and kids are having fun.
In addition to the ice cream adventure, Lance has also recently been investing in downtown buildings and supporting entrepreneurial efforts. We are grateful for community members and business owners like the Clarks who are willing to
Invest in Emmetsburg.
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City Invests $15,000 in Business Startup and Expansion Projects |
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Earlier this year, the City of Emmetsburg announced the first ever $10,000 Business Innovation Grant, funded by city-allocated Palo Alto County Gaming Development Corporation grant funding. Entrepreneurs had the opportunity to apply for grant funds to assist with business startup and expansion projects. Projects could include a new startup business, a business acquisition, a new business location, relocation to Emmetsburg, or business expansion (i.e. new products or services or a physical expansion).
Projects were evaluated based on their goals and objectives, evidence of need in the community, product budget and projections, and timeline for implementation. After reviewing applications, finalists were invited to a pitch presentation/interview. After careful consideration, the decision was made to fund two strong projects rather than just one as originally planned. The City was able to add an additional $5,000 to the fund in order to fund both at $7,500.
City Marketing & Retail Coordinator, Gretchen Reichter, led the creation of the program and was very excited about the success of the inaugural awards. "I'm proud to live in a community that is investing in its future. I appreciate our City Council's efforts to support entrepreneurs and our downtown, and I am so thankful that business owners choose to plant roots and expand in Emmetsburg. They make our community strong, vibrant, and attractive." |
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$7,500 Awarded to New Business: L Square Boutique |
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L to R:
Gretchen Reichter, City Marketing & Retail Coordinator; Pat Martini, City Councilman; Patrick Degen, Mayor; Shayla Petersen, L Square Boutique Owner;
Mike Hermansen, City Councilman;
Kim Kibbie, City Administrator |
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The City of Emmetsburg was proud to present Shayla Petersen, owner of L Square Boutique, with $7,500 to establish a new storefront in Emmetsburg. The Business Innovation Grant assisted with purchasing inventory, furnishings, marketing expenses, and more. After establishing her business in late 2023 and launching an online store in early 2024, Shayla took the leap and opened her brick and mortar storefront at 2213 Main Street in Emmetsburg on November 16. L Square Boutique offers women's clothing in sizes 0-22, accessories, and more. A men's clothing line was recently added and will grow in 2025. Check out the selection in person and online at www.lsquareboutique.com. |
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$7,500 Awarded to Blossoming Creations for Product Expansion |
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L to R:
Pat Martini, City Councilman; Shell Iwen, Blossoming Creations Owner; Kim Kibbie, City Administrator; Mike Hermansen, City Councilman;
Gretchen Reichter, City Marketing & Retail Coordinator; Patrick Degen, Mayor |
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Shell Iwen, owner of Blossoming Creations in downtown Emmetsburg, doesn't slow down. She has continually invested in her business since 2009, expanding product and service offerings over the years to meet the needs of customers and the community. Blossoming Creations encompasses a floral shop, home decor, greenhouse, printing and personalization. With the assistance of the $7,500 Business Innovation Grant, Blossoming Creations is expanding offerings once again by purchasing a large-scale direct-to-object laser printer. The new equipment will enhance signage capabilities and present a new array of products offerings, both for wholesale orders and one-time personalized gifts. Keep an eye out for a new product catalog in store and online at www.blossomingcreations.com. |
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Borrow E-books, Audiobooks, Magazines & More for Free! |
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Did you know that you can borrow e-books, audiobooks, magazines, and more when you use the Libby app? All you need is a library card from the Emmetsburg Public Library. Here's what to do:
- Download the Libby app from the Apple App Store, Google Play, Amazon appstore, or Libbyapp.com.
- Find the Emmetsburg Public Library and sign in with your library card.
- Browse or search to discover your next favorite book or audiobook.
- Start reading and listening!
There are thousands of e-books and audiobooks available for reading. Explore the collection through catalog guides, subjects, featured titles, and curated lists. It's a delight to discover new books through Libby.
Don't have a library card? Stop into the Emmetsburg Public Library (located on the east side of the Iowa Lakes Community College Emmetsburg campus) and sign up today.
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Rollout Garbage Bin Reminders |
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Keep Your Container Clean
It is the homeowner/tenant's responsibility to maintain a clean rollout container. Sticky/messy items thrown directly into the container may cause garbage to freeze to the bottom. This prevents the container from being fully emptied when picked up.
Garbage Bags Encouraged
Unbagged garbage can freeze in the containers. Unbagged trash can also lead to loose waste blowing around your neighborhood if the lid is left or blown open or if loose debris is blown away during the waste collection process. |
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City & EMU Closed for Christmas Holiday
Emmetsburg City Hall and Emmetsburg Municipal Utilities will be closed on Tuesday, December 24 and Wednesday, December 25 in honor of the Christmas holiday.
Garbage Schedule Changes:
Tuesday's garbage route will NOT change. Wednesday's garbage route will be picked up on Thursday, December 26.
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City & EMU Closed for New Year Holiday
Emmetsburg City Hall and Emmetsburg Municipal Utilities will close at noon on Tuesday, December 31 and remain closed on Wednesday, January 1 in honor of the New Year holiday.
Garbage & Recycling Schedule Changes
Tuesday's garbage route will not change. Wednesday's garbage route AND recycling route will be picked up on Thursday, December 26. |
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EMU Accepting Applications for Natural Gas Technician
Emmetsburg Municipal Utilities is accepting applications for a full-time Natural Gas Technician employee. The successful candidate will work under the direction of the EMU Board, EMU Superintendent/City Administrator, and EMU Natural Gas Foreman. Qualified applicants must have knowledge of natural gas distribution system, have or be able to get welding operator qualification certificate, safety mindset, good written and oral communication skills, advanced math skills, and detail oriented. The successful candidate will work within the Natural Gas Department as well as aid in Wastewater and Water departments, as necessary. Benefits include health insurance, paid vacation, holidays, personal days and clothing allowance.
Applications can be emailed to kkibbie@emmetsburg.com or submitted to:
Emmetsburg Municipal Utilities
Attn: Kim Kibbie, Superintendent
PO Box 417
2021 Main Street
Emmetsburg, IA 850536
Position open until filled. Emmetsburg Municipal Utilities is an Equal Opportunity Employer. |
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Dog Licenses
It's time to purchase your dog license. Emmetsburg City Code Chapter 56.02 requires every owner of a dog over the age of 6 months to purchase a license at City Hall on January 1st of each year. The license fee is $10 per dog, whether spayed/neutered or unaltered. The owner must provide a current rabies vaccination certificate. The city will issue a license to the owner along with a metal tag stamped with the license number and year which must be worn by the licensed dog. The city will keep record of the owner, place of residence, and description of the dog. If a dog is found running at large, the city can reference license records to find the owner. |
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Sump Pump Discharge
Residents are reminded to redirect sump pump discharge lines away from the road to prevent hazardous ice conditions for motorists.
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Please keep an eye on the City of Emmetsburg Facebook page for snow removal updates throughout the winter season. |
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Bingo with Horizons Unlimited
Every Monday at 1:30 PM @ First UMC Family Life Center |
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Video Game Hangout
Every Monday at 3:30 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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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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Pokémon Club
Every Tuesday at 3:30 PM @ Emmetsburg Public Library, Room 14
A light snack is provided. Open to all ages. |
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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 at 3:45 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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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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This newsletter is published by the City of Emmetsburg Marketing & Development Coordinator |
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