My 4th of July

Here are several pictures from my 4th of July. 

Although I had my camera with me all weekend, I didn't shoot much till at the Capital. 

 My former Choir director from High School, Bill Franke, conducted one of the songs with the West River Winds band.  Ernie Borr is the regular conductor.

 ND Capitol building

 North Dakota's Troubadour Chuck Suchy waiting to sing his heart about North Dakota. Was he praying here, or just enjoying the beautiful sunshine?

 My beautiful daughter Kristi listening to the music. 

 This gentleman was enjoying the concert 

 My mom and I were wondering at first if this guy was from the FBI or Secret Service, he seemed so out of place. I missed getting a picture of him with his dark sunglasses on. We finally decided he was probably Senator Conrad's Press Secretary, or something like that.  But our stories we made up about him being a spy, or SS agent were so much more interesting. :-)

 Why we celebrate. 

 Chuck Suchy have a word with Dr. Beverly Everett, the conductor of the symphony.  I love her boots!!

 This man was really in the 4th of July spirit.

 West Winds Brass section.  

 The color guard

 My sister Kim rocked the place singing the National Anthem. Way to go sis!!

 Oh say can you see....

 Kim getting a hug from Senator Hoeven and his wife. (former Governor Hoeven)

 This barefooted gentleman came up and sat on the steps for a while for a closer listen. Somehow, he seemed so sad. 

 My friend Grand Master Ben Ehrmantraut on the bass. Love the flag Ben!

 Do I see sand bags holding down this banner?

 And bricks on the other end. This is ND, everything must be tied down or it will blow away!!

 ND Troubadour Chuck Suchy. Love this man's music and heart.

 How fun for Chuck to get to sing backed up by such a fantastic Symphony. 

 My friend Grand Master Ben again. He is one talented man. One of the best guitarist I know, plus all the other instruments he plays. And yes, he and his wife are both Grand Masters in Martial Arts. When he received his title this last year of Grand Master, I asked him how many people reach that level. He said he knew of 10 in his region. I asked how big his region was, and he said, North America, South America and Europe!!! And here two of those 10 are in Bismarck and are two of the nicest most talented people I know.  

 Governor Jack Dalrymple and his wife, Former Governor and now Senator Hoeven and his wife.

 Another glorious ND sunset!!

 Dr. Beverly Everett the conductor of the Symphony. 

 Concert Master Everaldo Martinez, is fantastic!

I love this picture of Chuck Suchy checking his program in the flood light, and his shadow on the wall of the capital.