Friday Harbor’s traditional Independence Day Parade has historically set a high standard, and it is our responsibility to deliver a fitting tribute and celebration to our community each year.

The huge cast of community members involved with crafting and executing this year’s event deserve special recognition.

First, thank you to the thousands of parade spectators who came out to support and enjoy this glorious celebration. Your enthusiasm was the greatest “thanks” the participants could receive.

Thanks also to the over 70 entries that captured the spirit of our Friday Harbor Fourth and demonstrated why we are touted as “one of the nation’s top ten small town parades.” Themed entries were particularly strong, and I thank King’s Market for their generous financial contribution toward the prize awards.

Bravo to our business community for setting the stage with a unified display of festive red, white and blue patriotic bunting. In the weeks preceding the event, anticipation grew as more and more bunting appeared. Your effort made a significant impact on the event’s success and has added a colorful new tradition.

Special thanks to the Town of Friday Harbor and its staff, the Port of Friday Harbor, the Washington State Ferry employees and Sheriff’s department personnel for their detailed coordination and planning. Thanks to our wonderful community civic organizations: Kiwanis, Rotary, Soroptimists and Lions clubs all lent their support to different phases of our event. Additional thanks to the Presbyterian Church and Palace Theatre for use of their properties on parade day.

Lastly, those really deserving our thanks and recognition are the heroes of “Parade Day,” the volunteers who arrived very early to help register the participants and stage the entries for their parade journey. This talented and organized team made it all possible. Take a bow for a job well done!

This was my first year as the San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce Parade Coordinator and I realize now how many different people contribute to make our community shine. Please accept my heartfelt thanks.