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S.D. Tourism re-signs with Macy's Parade

The state of South Dakota will be appearing in the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade for another three years. Tourism Secretary James Hagen tells The Associated Press that the Department of Tourism has been invited to renew their contract to appear in the parade.

For the past three years, a South Dakota float featuring some of the state’s most well-known attractions has appeared in the parade. A musician is also featured on the float. Past musicians include Don McLean and Neil Diamond. Hagen says the Tourism Department is excited to be invited back for another three years. 

The Tourism Department spent about $225,000 each year for the past three years for the opportunity. Hagen says that price is anticipated to go down for the next three years.

Edison Festival of Light Parade Float Winners

Ray Rice fell off Ravens’ parade float!

See how your teammates are holding on, Ray? (USA Today Sports)Baltimore Ravens' running back Ray Rice was sure-footed enough to run for 1,143 yards during the 2012 season, and 306 more in the post-season. He was a big reason why the Ravens won the Super Bowl. Unfortunately, he was not sure-footed enough to stay on a float during the victory parade.

“Hey I’ve gotta tell you a funny story,” he said. “You know, the float stopped short and I fell off of it, but I caught myself. I’m good though. I’m telling y’all that because y’all are my boys. Ray Rice has no injuries. I fell off the float, but I’m good.”
Rice went on to say that he fell into a push-up position, stood back up and said, "Let's party."

Rice's durability is one of the reasons he has been successful. He hasn't missed a game since becoming a starter. Perhaps it's because when he gets hit, he catches himself, gets back to his feet and says, "Let's party."