09.30.14

Hoeven Statement on Norsk Hostfest

BISMARCK, N.D. – Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement to mark this year’s opening of the annual Norsk Høstfest Scandinavian Festival scheduled to begin today in Minot:

“Over the past thirty-seven years Norsk Høstfest has grown into the largest Scandinavian festival in North America, annually bringing tens of thousands of people from around the world to our state to celebrate North Dakota’s Scandinavian roots. North Dakota is proud of the legacy handed down to us from our Scandinavian ancestors who helped to shape our state. The opportunity to work, live and build a better life that first brought many Scandinavians to North Dakota is still evident today, the product of our people’s outstanding work ethic and growing economy.

“No tribute to the Norsk Høstfest Scandinavian Festival would be complete without mention of Chet Reiten, who originated this festival and left an indelible mark on North Dakota. Chet passed away last year, but he would be proud to see the tradition he launched being enjoyed by the people of the state he loved for yet another year.”