A diary at Michigan Liberal alerted me to this story last night.
DeVos displayed a stunning lack of respect for the Coast Guard Festival and the people of Grand Haven, and in this action showed what kind of leader he would be- one that would go against the people's wishes and do whatever he wants.
Festival officials are particularly proud of the memorial service honoring the men and women of the Coast Guard who sacrificed their lives for their country. A highlight of the service is a tribute to the crew members who died when the Coast Guard Cutter Escanaba sank during World War II.
Saturday's events, of course, are less somber, as the Grand Parade and fireworks highlight a day loaded with activities.
But it's still the Coast Guard Festival and we shouldn't forget about the intent of the celebration.
That's why we find it upsetting that some candidates for political offices felt the need to campaign in Grand Haven during the festival.
Gubernatorial candidate Dick DeVos and U.S. Senate candidate Mike Bouchard, both Republicans, were two candidates who were in town during the festival stumping for votes.
DeVos representatives, in fact, had asked if they could participate in the Grand Parade.
Festival Director Michael Smith denied them permission. The festival's policy is that any candidate seeking office can't be part of the parade. Incumbents are allowed to participate in the parade.
DeVos' people found a way to circumvent the rule by walking the parade route prior to the parade. DeVos worked the crowd like any good politician would.
We believe that DeVos' appearance at the parade was inappropriate. He should have found another time to visit our city.
The festival should be void of politics. We're honoring the men and women of the Coast Guard - not people seeking political office.
The modern day Republican arrogance for all to see. They were told "no"; they did it anyway. Does that behavior sound familiar?
No class. No class whatsoever.