Sheboygan mayor declares ‘Wayne Emmer Day’ recognizing Emmer’s bar’s nearly 40 years as a ‘popular gathering place’

SHEBOYGAN – Though Emmer’s is preparing to close its doors after nearly 40 years, the bar name will be remembered in a mayoral declaration.

Bar owner Wayne Emmer, 80, was recognized for his contributions to the community in a proclamation from Mayor Ryan Sorenson declaring July 27, 2024, “Wayne Emmer Day.”

Emmer has been a “dedicated business owner and community member in Sheboygan for nearly four decades,” running a “beloved establishment” and a “popular gathering place,” the proclamation read. It was presented to Emmer at a retirement party for him and his wife Tamie July 27.

“I encourage all citizens to participate and congratulate Wayne on his contribution to the community,” Sorenson said in the proclamation.

“Receiving that recognition on Saturday from Sheboygan’s Mayor was so unexpected,” Emmer’s daughter, Missy Reineking, said in a message. “I am truly grateful to Mayor Sorenson for choosing to honor my dad like this; it was such a great addition to the retirement celebration.”

Reineking has fond memories at Emmer’s — working for her father, hosting her wedding reception and bringing her kids to “grandpa’s bar.”

“You can't really go in Sheboygan anywhere and mention the name Emmer's and not have somebody recognize it,” Reineking said. “They know the Emmer name, and it's because of the bar.”

Learn more about Emmer's Bar: Once popular spot for darts and brat fries, Emmer's will close after nearly 40 years in Sheboygan

Sorenson said he thinks it’s important his office recognizes local businesses that have contributed to the community.

The GameBoard, Sheboygan Pasty Company and various pizza makers and restaurants have been recognized by Sorenson’s office in the past, too.

Emmer is retiring and selling the property, which will shift to a restaurant. He opened the original bar, Emmer’s Tap, on the corner of 14th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue in 1986. The bar moved to its current location on 15th Street when the city decided to widen 14th Street in the mid-1990s.

The bar was well known for hosting cornhole tournaments, dart competitions, live music and the frequent brat fry.

“We wish Wayne and Tamie the best in their next adventures,” Sorenson said. “Their establishment will definitely be missed.”

Historic Sheboygan County sites: Sites you can visit include John Michael Kohler House, Thomas Drug Store and two others

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This article originally appeared on Sheboygan Press: Sheboygan mayor declares ‘Wayne Emmer Day’ recognizing Emmer’s bar’s nearly 40 years as a ‘popular gathering place’