The Adams County Animal Shelter is participating in the Clear the Shelters event on Saturday, Aug. 19. This community-driven, nationwide adoption event seeks to match deserving animals with loving, permanent homes. Adoption fees on Aug. 19 will be waived. The shelter, 10705 Fulton St., Brighton, will be open from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Stop by to take home your new furry best friend!

Adams County is hosting the 2017 Planning Partners Conference on Friday, Sept. 22, at the Government Center, 4430 S. Adams County Parkway, Brighton. The conference will focus on collaboration building, idea exchange, and networking between Adams County, municipalities in and around the county, neighboring counties, and private sector stakeholders, such as developers, realtors, engineers, and architects.

The Colorado Master Gardener program in Adams County is accepting applications for fall 2017 evening classes. Classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6–9 p.m., Sept. 26–Nov. 30. Master Gardeners are part of the outreach program of Colorado State University Extension; a statewide network including Master Gardeners and CSU faculty and staff who provide lifelong educational programs for all Coloradans in their local communities using research-based information.

Adams County Commissioner Steve O’Dorisio received the Real Heroes Award from the non-profit organization Vets Helping Vets for his service to the organization to benefit veterans’ causes.

George Horgan, the president and founder of Vets Helping Vets, said O’Dorisio has a history of focusing on the needs of veterans.