This summer is a special time to be an American, and beyond that, a historic time to live in Gloucester County. Did you know that we're celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, and the 375th anniversary of Gloucester's founding?

The folks on the Gloucester Parks, Recreation & Tourism team have been pouring their hearts into planning celebratory events. There are so many ways to learn about our history, and commemorate our journey, that we had to line them up for you in one place.

4-H Camp is a terrific opportunity for youth to learn citizenship, leadership, and life skills through hands-on experiences while making lasting friendships and enjoying a fun-filled week on the James River. Campers enjoy being part of a larger group and participating in campfires, recreation, and classes which may include archery, dance, canoe, kayak, swimming, arts and crafts, outdoor living skills, challenge course, marine science, air rifle, woodworking, and more!

Even beyond the traditional overnight camp at Jamestown, our 4-H staff has set up day camps for kids of all ages this summer, where they can explore everything from crafts to cooking to local farms.

For more information, check out https://www.facebook.com/GloucesterVA4H or call 804-693-2602.

Did you know that Gloucester County Animal Control organizes low-cost rabies vaccine clinics for cats and dogs every month? How about spay/neuter services? Or their standalone animal shelter, full of adoptable dogs, back behind Tractor Supply?

This department is involved in every facet of animal welfare. They have the power to rescue pets from bad situations, and the hearts to connect them to good homes.

The next drive-through rabies vaccine clinic will be on May 2, from 1-3 p.m., and it's $10 cash to vaccinate a cat or a dog. If you miss that, or you'd like to get help with a low-cost spay/neuter, call 804-693-5290.

Learn more by going to gloucesterva.gov/animal-control or checking out their volunteer-run Facebook page.

Adoptable dogs: https://www.petfinder.com/search/dogs-for-adoption/us/va/gloucester/?shelterRescue=3b9fd8c5-a1b7-4e7c-b6eb-6732ac167c4f&includeOutOfTown=true