A Virtual Fourth of July
AWCH News & Events
A VIRTUAL FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION
BY MORGAN R .
When we think of the Fourth of July , many of us think of past fireworks shows , BBQs , and family gatherings . But this year we had to be creative and open to a new way to celebrate . The result : a fun , family-friendly celebration with music , history , and trivia , all within a virtual meet-up platform called SpacialChat .
Before the event , in the spirit of a more normal celebration of America ’ s birth , participants received a hand-packed and delivered Fourth of July goodie bag filled with candy , Cracker Jack , a fun-sized flag , and patriotic stickers . The treats were a joy to deliver and brought delight to all participants .
The official event on July 2 began in the virtual AWCH Lounge with a warm welcome from our president , Carol H ., followed by
an introduction to the program and platform from the event ’ s moderator , Jordan W ., who then ushered everyone into the first musical “ singalong ” with Nancy T . After an uplifting start with “ Take Me Out to the Ball Game ,” everyone moved to a different virtual room where Tracy M . held a very informative talk about the history of “ The Star-Spangled Banner ,” which ended with a beautiful rendition of the anthem by Julia R .
Moving right along , the group teleported into a classroomstyle space for American Trivia , first for children , then some tougher questions for the adults . Moderated by Jordan W . and Morgan R ., the questions were answered through emojis by each member , which added an entertaining participation aspect to the event .
Two more rooms were then opened for everyone to experience a musical performance by Rachel C . and a video from the musical Hamilton . Members also congregated back in the lounge to talk and catch up with one another in the virtual space .
Despite all the circumstances and restrictions surrounding COVID-19 , the AWCH ’ s celebration of America ’ s 245th birthday was a fun event . Although , next year , let us hope that we can all meet up once more , hold sparklers , and clink glasses , in true Fourth of July style .
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Photos by Jessica M . and Sara N .