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During the morning and early afternoon, many people
were out shopping at one of the many garage sales in Emden.
The evening’s activities began with a supper of
chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans and a dessert served by
members of the Hartem High School FFA. Hartem Agricultural teacher
Sarah Barton said the chicken supper is their biggest fundraiser.
Those who wanted more traditional festival food could get a Korn
dog, fries and a drink at the booth ran by American Legion Post 506.
Emden’s Dovetail Inn, which opened around a year ago
offered street food in “boats” with such fare as backyard burgers,
smoked meatloaf hoagies, catfish po’boy, chicken tenders, southwest
chicken or beef nachos, ribs, catfish and hotdogs.
For those with a sweet tooth, there was a variety of ice cream,
shakes and sundae flavors.
To reigning Little Miss Emden Mia Westen,
getting ice cream is the best part of homecoming.
Children’s activities included basketball, a fishing game, bouncy
houses, a rock climbing wall and face painting. Kids enjoyed these
activities well into the evening.
Other games were ring toss, dime toss and ever popular Bingo with
cash prizes up to $100.
Lillian Rademaker loves playing ring toss and winning
liter bottles of soda.
Musical entertainment was provided by the group
Stereo Typical, who played classic rock from the 70s and 80s.
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Jennifer Dipasquale of Lincoln was out enjoying their
music and danced to a few tunes. She said Stereo Typical had a great
selection of songs.
Kathy Meeks of Bloomington, who grew up in Emden, said she enjoys
seeing friends and family she hasn’t seen for a while when she comes
to the homecoming.
Former Emden resident Ron Fink now lives in Denton, Texas. He and
his wife made a long trek to Emden earlier this week as they
travelled to the area on a train. Fink also enjoys seeing old
friends and relatives at homecoming. He planned to donate the Hartem
Stag jacket he wore in high school to the Emden Historical Society.
Since the village of Emden was established 152 years
ago, there is a lot of history. Those interested in learning more
about Emden’s history could stop in the Emden Historical Society
building and see artifacts donated by many different Emden
residents. New exhibits included newspaper clippings from events
over the years.
Further down the street was another open house at the newly
renovated Air BNB in downtown Emden.
Owners Mark and Keri Dalki along with their dogs Bob
and Seger welcomed anyone who wanted to see the home with an open
concept living room and kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom. The
hallway was lined with old railroad photos and memorabilia since the
railroad is right behind the home. Those interested in learning more
about this place to gather and enjoy the small town can join the
Emden 190 group on social media.
After the sun had set, people milled about playing Bingo and
visiting well into the evening. Friday night provided another great
night for food, fun and festivities. The fun continued Saturday with
more garage sales, a parade, kiddie tractor pull and more evening
activities.
[Angela Reiners]
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