Legends In Bronze
           On May 25,2005 a Legends In Bronze Concert and dedication was held at Buck Owens Crystal Palace outside in the parking lot. A huge stage was constructed as well as bleachers and chairs to accomodate over 7,000 fans.
           At great expense to himself Buck Owens contracted sculptor Bill Rains to create bronze statues of Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, George Strait, George Jones, Elvis Presley, Hank Williams Sr., Bob Wills, Johnny Cash and Garth Brooks which will be on view in the future at the Crystal Palace.
           George Jones, Merle Haggard and Garth Brooks were in attendance as well as Ray Benson of Asleep At The Wheel,Dierks Bentley and Joe Nichols all of whom performed for the audience.
           Merle Haggard closed the show which ran for a total four hours. Our good friend Hank Decato sent us these pictures he took while backstage at the invitation of his friend Merle Haggard.
           On a personal note my good friend Sonny Langley was asked by Merle to sit in playing acoustic guitar during Merle's set. That was quite an honor and Merle was so impressed with Sonny's guitar playing he made him an honorary member of Merle's band called the Strangers. -Glenn