To the Editor: I am asking for your support in the upcoming bond referendum for the new Palo Alto County Public Safety Center. I would like to take a moment to address a few of the questions I have been asked. Why build new? Why not just … more

Palo Alto County Residents, I am currently the Jail Administrator and I wholeheartedly agree with Sheriff Schultes on the need for a new facility.  Our Jail is not safe for the Jailers or the Inmates. When we go back to do our hourly checks we … more

To the Editor: As an electrician working in Emmetsburg off and on for 50 years, I have spent many hours “wiring” in the old Palo Alto County Sheriff and Jail facility. First hand, I can agree that the old building has done its job and … more

To the Editor: The Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Offices needs the new facility. The new facility will increase the safety, effectiveness, and efficiency of the entire organization and its employees. The new jail will allow for increased safety … more

Like Dave Carpenter’s cartoon says - it’s time to start thinking about filing your taxes. Each year around tax time we receive information about the Chickadee Checkoff. This always appeals to me because I come from a family of birders. And, … more

To the Editor: In response to Dave Rouse's editorial of January 26th, I offer the following comments: I'd like to thank Dave for the positive comments directed towards my recent words of encouragement published in the January 14th issue of … more

To the Editor: Congratulations to our Emmetsburg wrestling coaches and team on winning their 3rd consecutive Twin Lakes Conference Tournament title! And 4th consecutive Twin Lakes Conference dual team title! This was also our 6th consecutive … more

To the Editor: Sheriff Schultes said it best: “We are not wishing to build because we want to, we are wishing to build because we need to.” I have been an employee with the Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office for about 7 years as a … more

To the editor: I thank our mayor, Patrick Degen, for his excellent article in the Democrat last week. It was thoughtful, compassionate, and provided a pleasant reminder and challenge to all the residents of Emmetsburg and Palo Alto County. … more

Dear Palo Alto County Residents, I am currently an employee of the Palo Alto County Sheriff's Dept. I work as a full-time jailer. I can't even begin to tell you how bad this Jail is falling apart. Our current structure is not safe for … more