Another letter to the editor about the Nordic Fest Antique Show

decorahnews.com reader Ellen Drewes has submitted a letter to the editor about the Nordic Fest Antique Show:

"After reading the Christensen letter's regarding the Nordic Fest Antique show and a concern on whether or not the Board is "listening," I plead "guilty," as both a friend and I stated at the table, we didn't want to pay to attend.  I encourage the Nordic Fest Board to LISTEN to the Christensen's about raising booth rental. 

Here's another situation that I see developing that I believe will be a real concern for the very near future.  Having a family member that has exhibited and competed in the various exhibitions at Vesterheim Museum, we have seen the exhibit set up on the main level for several years, FREE of charge for people to visit, learn, and enjoy.  This past year, one exhibit was moved to the third floor.  And, there's more.....$10 charge (gasp!) to see the exhibit and have an opportunity to vote for various winners.  I did take advantage of the "free" Thursday prior to the Fest to see the exhibits. 

Here's my point.....if people are reluctant to pay $2 to visit the antique exhibits, why would they pay $10 to see art exhibits?  What is the Nordic Fest Board trying to accomplish? 

In my opinion, the Board is driving people away by charges such as these.  Let's face it, it's about money.  Why not raise the cost of the buttons?  I have collected them over the years...they are terrific!  Let the buttons be the admission to events (this is similar to the County Fair, so there's already a "model" out there for generating revenue).  Would I pay $10 for a button that would get me into various exhibits?  You bet!!  Will I pay $10 to see the exhibits in the museum?  No way!!  One last plea:  please, Nordic Fest Board, listen!