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4th of July, 2009

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Rainbow Gypsy Hill pond, crowd

"Is this heaven?" No, it's Staunton, Virginia, where the friendly folks are gathered around the pond at Gypsy Hill Park, waiting for the Fourth of July parade. The photos below are a sample of some of the political participants in the annual festivities.


VFW float July 4, 2009

The Veterans of Foreign Wars remind us that it took many thousands of courageous men bearing arms, at risk to their own lives, for us to become independent -- and remain free.


Bob Goodlatte, July 4, 2009

Congressman Bob Goodlatte; his wife Mary Ellen is in back out of view, wearing the pink blouse.


GOP sign truck, 2009

The Republican campaign sign truck, with party activists Steve Kijak (top) and Chris Green (left).


Tea Party Patriots, July 4

The "Tea Party Patriots" drew several enthusiastic followers.


Democrats parade, July 4

Democrats joined the parade to demand more entitlements: "Health care: we can't wait!"


July 4 crowd, 2009

After the July 4 parade, most of the folks in the crowd headed over to the concession stands and kiosks set up by various civic organizations.


Gypsy Hill Express

For kids under ten, and for their nostalgic grandfathers, the funnest thing to do was hop on board the Gypsy Hill Express.


Matthew, Jules, Andrew

Matthew Poteat and son Julian, along with yours truly at the parade. The baseball caps were purely coincidental. (Thanks to Katherine for taking the photo.)

Later that day, the Washington Nationals beat the Atlanta Braves, putting an end to yet another losing streak.


Rainbow