Stars and Stripes Forever

Fourth of July celebration in Pioneer Park, Fairbanks. The paddlewheeler Nenana is on permanent display and is festooned with banners and balloons while Army and Air Force honor guards display flags and a rifle team did a salute as name of the states were read. The U.S. Army Alaska Arctic Warrior Band played Sousa marches and the conductor is all smiles after a great rendition of Stars and Stripes Forever. They played other patriotic songs and there were kid's games, entertainment and a parade to commemorate the day. Let's not forget food as there were booths selling an All American Meal of a hot dog and apple pie a la mode. We opted for a Souvlaki stand and I had falafel. We are a melting pot after all. The sun came out around noon and I hoped the rains were over for a while. As I write this the skies opened up and it began to pour. But wait, the rain has ended quickly and the sun is shining once again.

Pioneer Park was created for Alaska's Centennial and has playgrounds, an air museum, carousel, train ride and other amusements. Jeff is standing on an old street with log cabins moved here from other locations and now housing boutiques and food stands. Last visit Jeff went into the 40 below house where he was given a parka, gloves and hat and went inside to freeze. He enjoyed it doing experiments like throwing a glass of water into the air and watching it freeze instantly.