HARTINGTON - 

About 125 people showed up Friday to help mark the 45th anniversary of the Hartington Economic Development Corporation. Dignitaries from across the state, including Lt. Gov. Mike Foley, came to the Historic Hartington Hotel for the celebration. 

Lt. Gov Foley remarked how he was impressed with the community of Hartington and the entrepreneurial spirit community members are showing. He was especially impressed at how community members Ben and Erin Schroeder took an old, boarded-up building and revitalized it into the Historic Hartington Hotel.

Hartington Economic Development President Chris Miller also addressed the crowd at Friday afternoon's banquet. Miller gave a short history of the Economic Development organization and touched on a few of the group’s highlights over the past 45 years.

Miller said the hard work of many forward-thinking individuals has made Hartington what it is today.

Hartington Mayor-elect Mark Becker also addressed the crowd, echoing Miller’s thoughts. Becker, who decided to run for Mayor because his father was a long-time City Council member, said local residents are known for stepping up and doing their part when called upon.

Friday’s anniversary celebration was the start of a day-long Candlelight Christmas celebration. The day also included business open houses, a rededication at the Hartington Library and a bell choir concert and the annual Lighted Vehicle parade.