Taylor County 4-H recently wrapped up its third annual Camp USA: Celebrating 250 Years of America, and this year’s camp held special significance as youth took part in activities and lessons leading up to America’s 250th birthday.
Throughout the week, campers explored what it means to be an American while learning about the responsibilities and privileges that come with citizenship. Through hands-on activities, educational tours, guest speakers, and creative projects, youth gained a deeper understanding of how local, state, and national government work together to serve their communities.
The week began with a focus on local government. Campers visited the Taylor County Courthouse, where County Judge Bill Blue provided an interactive lesson on the judicial branch and explained how the court system serves local citizens. Deputy Ricketson welcomed campers into the courtroom, called the room to order as the judge entered, and gave youth a behind-the-scenes tour of the courtroom.
Property Appraiser Shawna Beach shared the important role the Property Appraiser’s Office plays in the community and how property values support local services. For the third consecutive year, Supervisor of Elections Dana Southerland welcomed campers to the Elections Office, where each participant had the opportunity to cast a ballot in a mock election. After all the votes were counted, the Taylor County 4-H Sharpshooters Club was selected as campers’ favorite club, followed by the Culinary Club.
Campers also visited Veterans Park, where they learned about each of America’s major wars and the sacrifices made by the men and women who served our country. The visit helped youth appreciate the freedom they enjoy today. Taylor County 4-H extends its appreciation to the Veterans Park Committee: Roy Grubbs, Jamie Sheffield, Judge Greg Parker, Supervisor of Elections Dana Southerland, Mike Hunter, Property Appraiser Shawna Beach and Tax Collector Mark Wiggins for preserving such a meaningful place that honors those who have served.
As part of the week’s patriotic theme, campers learned about America’s national symbols, including the national bird, national flower, and national mammal. They created homemade bird feeders and patriotic wind chimes while discussing the history and significance behind each symbol.
One of the week’s highlights was a trip to Florida’s Capitol in Tallahassee. Campers toured both the Senate and House of Representatives chambers while learning about the legislative process. Inside the Senate Chamber, youth sat at senators’ actual desks and participated in a mock legislative session. They introduced a bill, asked questions, debated its merits, and voted providing a firsthand experience of how a bill becomes a law.
The tour continued in the House of Representatives, where campers learned about the
responsibilities of state representatives and admired the beautiful murals throughout the chamber while discovering the stories and history they represent.
Throughout the week, the excitement and pride displayed by the campers was evident. Whether participating in government educational lessons, creating patriotic crafts, or learning about the symbols and history of the United States, youth embraced every opportunity to better understand their country and their role as citizens.
As America prepared to celebrate its 250th birthday, Taylor County 4-H Camp USA is proud to inspire the next generation of civic leaders. Camp USA is helping shape informed, responsible, and engaged citizens for years to come.
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