Remsen Oktoberfest kicks off tomorrow
The 51st annual Remsen Oktoberfest is set to kick off tomorrow morning, with a full slate of activities, entertainment, food, and plenty of craft beer. Oktoberfest in Remsen started as a way to keep the community’s German and Luxembourgish traditions alive, and the event celebrated its 50th anniversary last October. Speaking on KLEM’s What Now show, Curtis Kroger says the day starts early on Saturday.
The fun continues into the afternoon, with a beer garden and a contest for children.
Two polka bands will also play during the afternoon and evening. The event concludes with the “Big Bavarian Feast”, with both German and American cuisine offered.
For more information about Saturday’s events, Kroger says to check online and on Facebook.
Remsen Oktoberfest starts this Saturday at 9 a.m., with the feast starting at 4 p.m., and entertainment running until 11 p.m.. Tickets can be purchased in advance at American Bank and Iowa State Bank in Remsen.
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Hotel/motel tax increase measure on November ballot
Next month’s local elections will include a public measure on increasing the city hotel and motel tax to the state-maximum rate of 7%. The measure is one of two that’s on the ballot for November 4th’s elections, along with the firehouse bond issue.
Le Mars community development director Mark Gaul explained to KLEM the rationale of increasing the rate.
Gaul says that funds from the tax are used for grants for community events, as well as for promoting tourism and for public services. He says he sees increasing the tax as an opportunity for the community.
Gaul emphasizes the tax is only levied against hotels and motels, and wouldn’t affect residents unless they use hotels in Le Mars.
Citizens will be able to vote on the public measure on Election Day, November 4th.
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