(Clive, IA) -- The Johnston man who dressed as a Nazi on Halloween is apologizing. Donnie Gardner is seen on social media posts wearing a Nazi uniform including a swastika armband and Hitler-like mustache. It happened at Miss Kitty's bar in Clive. Gardner released a statement saying, "I am dreadfully sorry to anyone caught in the crosshairs and suffering from photos or interactions with me Friday night as any and all hatred should be pointed at myself and myself only. I take full responsibility for the repercussions and will continue to face them head on."
The owner of Miss Kitty's has received online death threats. Someone also posted a sign on the bar's door saying "We love Nazis".
A volunteer hockey coach from Drake has been let go after being pictured smiling standing next to Gardner. Drake University issued a statement saying,
"Effective immediately, the volunteer coach of the Drake Hockey Club has been dismissed. Drake University unequivocally condemns all forms of hate speech and discriminatory symbolism. Such behavior stands in direct opposition to our values of respect, inclusion, and integrity, and it has no place within our community."
The Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines calls the incident anti-semitism, not satire.
"The Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines is deeply disturbed by reports that a local bar patron wore a Hitler costume on Halloween. There is nothing humorous, satirical, or edgy about dressing as the man responsible for the systematic murder of six million Jews and millions of others. This is not about taste, rather it is about basic decency and humanity."
Jarad Bernstein, Executive Director, Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines
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