This story has grown far beyond it’s importance and I would like people to hear my voice about the Santa saga.

Neither the city of Kirkland, nor any of its employees or officials were involved in any way, nor was the Kirkland Downtown Association and Chamber responsible for the confusion that occurred in the park. This is a matter of pure miscommunication and missed communications.

I am working to make sure nothing like this ever happens again. Apologies have been shared and accepted wholeheartedly. In fact, in the spirit of Christmas, I am partnering with the Kirkland Downtown Association and Kirkland Chamber to do a toy and food drive on Dec. 13 from 2-3 p.m. at Marina Park by the Christmas tree.

]As a community, we need to keep the spirit alive, and you can show your support by bringing toys and food to give back to the needy people in our area. Please come see me and spread the holiday cheer.

Ho, ho, ho, and here’s to happy endings. No coal in anyone’s stocking this year.

Fred Herzberg, Kirkland