The first thing we did today was to begin looking at the final result of our research projects. We examined many posters from past years and evaluated their strengths and weaknesses. We ended up making a list of all of the things that we had to avoid as well as parts that we did want to include. 

Today was the 4th of July so we were privileged to watch the parade. It was a great experience to learn about all the organizations active on the island like the Suroptomists, Wolf Hollow Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, and the Lions Club. There were also many fun floats that were assembled by determined community members. 

Image taken by Caroline

Image taken by Caroline

Image from https://www.visitsanjuans.com/10-fun-things-to-do-in-friday-harbor

After the parade, we all went to the pig war picnic. The Pig War is a historical event that occurred on San Juan Island in the late 1850s where tensions between settlers due to a border dispute culminated in an American settler shooting a British settler’s pig. As the situation continued to escalate the British and American armies were called to the island where they set up camp on different sides of the island. However, due to negotiations, no blood was ever spilled, and the only casualty of the pig war was the initial pig. 

Next, we headed down to Jackson Beach for some fun in the sun. We lounged around the beach, took a few freezing dips in the water, and played volleyball in the blazingly hot sand pit.

Photo by Nina

Finally, we went down to the docks to watch the fireworks. Although we discussed the negative environmental effects of such a display (air and noise pollution), we all agreed it was a fabulous show.