I was a PA along with Peggy and Robert for the California State fair in Sacramento on August 13th. 
 Tami arrived first and told us that Matthew and Gunnar were driving (very fast) to get here but would be a bit late so we left to get something to eat but I couldn’t eat much as I was very, very nervous. After everybody arrived at the hotel, we were given introductions and then we all headed over to the fairground for sound check.  We were surprised to see Dogboy and Cary Park arrive too, as I thought it was going to be an acoustic set. It was really nice to meet them.   After helping to unload the van, the guys started sound check. It was fun to watch and take some photos. Then we went backstage for something to eat.  I was really thirsty but didn’t know where the drinks were, when I saw Gunnar with 2 bottles of water.  I asked him where he got them and he very graciously gave me one of his.  Tami soon told us we had to leave to go back to the hotel to change. 
While we were waiting for Matthew, Gunnar and Tami to change clothes, Dogboy showed us his ‘Cheat sheets’ that he uses to help him remember the songs.   After everyone was ready, we got back in the van and Matthew asked us to help with the set list.  He said it had to be primarily their fathers’ songs as it was a tribute concert after all but a couple of Nelson tunes were added as they managed to get some extra time.  The VIP’s arrived for their meet and greet with Matthew and Gunnar so we helped Tami carry the merchandise to the booth where they would be signing after the show.  Then it was time for Matt and Gun to head onto the stage so we took our seats for the show.  We had great seats to take some photos from but Gunnar was left in the dark, as they didn’t put a spotlight on him so the photos weren’t too good.  It was an awesome show and during Garden Party, everyone was singing along and really enjoying themselves.  The atmosphere was electric and I’m sure it made Rick proud of his sons. 
The show was over too quickly. We then headed back to the dressing room to escort the guys up to the merchandise booth, with extra security guards.  Most of the audience left the show to stand in line to meet them. We walked up and down the line and sold a lot of cd’s.  Some people bought 3 and 4 at a time.  People couldn’t believe that Matthew and Gunnar were willing to meet everyone who wanted to meet them and sign cd’s etc.  I told them that they do this after all concerts and it amazed a lot of people.  We were assigned our own security guard to look after us and to escort us back to the dressing room when Tami needed more merchandise. About 90 minutes later when the line had ended, it was back to the dressing room to pack up. We then had a chance to get our souvenirs signed and take some photos.  After packing up the van, we headed back to the hotel and during the journey, Matthew discussed plans for an upcoming tour with Slaughter and Firehouse.  It was cool how he asked us for our opinion on his ideas and we agreed it would be an awesome show. Back at the hotel they transferred all their gear into Matthews car Then it was time for hugs and goodbyes. They thanked us for all our hard work but I never considered it work. I was having way too much fun. 

I had an amazing day being a PA for Matthew and Gunnar and I can’t recommend it enough.  If you have the chance take it – you won’t be disappointed.  I will definitely do it again.  I was VERY nervous while I was waiting for the guys to arrive earlier in the day but after Matthew and Gunnar poked fun at me in the van going to the fair, my nerves quickly disappeared and they all made me feel at ease.

Thank you so much Tami, for inviting us to take part in this very exciting experience and to Matthew and Gunnar for allowing us to be a part of their world for a day.