Letter to the Editor: Nordic Fest float driver didn't have any banners or signs on the trailer at the time I saw him

The following Letter to the Editor has been submitted by Nordic Fest Parade Chair Gary Rustad:

"This past Saturday's Nordic Fest parade, which was supposed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Fest, was marred by one entry that got into the parade at the last minute. As the parade chairman, I take the responsibility of putting forward the best possible parade. Unfortunately this late entry has many people looking down on the whole Nordic Fest experience.  I'm very sorry this happened. I take whole responsibility for this. 

When the driver of the out-of-state vehicle and trailer showed up, he showed up the middle of what I called the "organized chao," I put him in the back of parade – he didn't have any banners or signs on the trailer at the time.  There was never any attempt to harm the Democratic Party or their nominee for president. 

In closing, please do not think any less of Nordic Fest or its mission to put forward a family-friendly celebration. The Nordic Fest board is made up of many dedicated men and women who spend many hours working hard to achieve the success that this 50th Nordic Fest anniversary accomplished.

When I stepped aside after twenty years of directing the Chamber's Christmas parade - we went out with bang thanks to the positive fireworks.  And now stepping aside after close to a total thirty Nordic Fest parades, starting with helping Daryl Landas, this wasn't the way I had envisioned going out with bang. The Nordic Fest parade does have a new parade chairperson, I know she'll do a great job!     Again I'm sorry that this happened."