For hundreds of area schoolchildren, summer is finally here.

The last of the local schools closed their doors for the summer last week, much to the delight of most of the students and teachers.

But the freedom of the next two months isn’t the only good news that kicked off last week. Let’s review a few other great things.

– The Natchez-Adams County Humane Society has begun the final phase of a massive fundraising project to construct a new animal shelter. The group has raised $650,000 and only lacks $100,000 to get work under way.

This cause is a great one, and the folks behind the fundraising certainly deserve a pat on the head and a good belly rub.

– Keith Nations holds the keys now, the keys to the safety of many Liberty Road area residents. Nations has taken over as chief of the Liberty Road Volunteer Fire Department. Longtime chief B.L. Calcote has devoted many years to the department, and we can’t thank both men enough for their willingness to serve.

– The re-formed Community Alliance has chosen three great community projects to get behind. The group will support the Natchez Trails Project, the Phatwater Kayak Challenge and Christmas in Natchez — City of Lights.

It’s great to have this group back and working. If you haven’t joined yet, there is still time to make a difference.

Summer is a fun time — even for those of us without a two-month break — so let’s enjoy the coming days to the fullest.