Orange County's monthly source for in-depth information about activities, programs, events, and more.
VIBRANT ECONOMY l EFFECTIVE REFLECTIVE GOVERNMENT l SUSTAINABLE LAND USE
INSIGHT
Orange County Visitor Spending Increases Page 5
A Bird ’ s Eye View on the Airport Pages 7 - 8
Costume Contest Returns for Tenth Year Pages 19 - 20
Page | October 2023 October 2023
Team Orange,
The “ end of an era ” is quickly being realized as we fondly recall the service of Supervisor Frame whose resignation from the Board took effect at the end of September. Likewise, Supervisor Crozier resigned in April (effective July) and was back in the area earlier this month to be recognized for his long service to our region by the Rappahannock Rapidan Regional Commission at its annual banquet. In December, we will recognize outgoing supervisor Jim White who announced his retirement from the Board earlier this year. All three have made significant contributions to the success of our community over the past decade or more, and we are grateful for their leadership. A new era of leadership will begin in January when the Board is seated following next month ’ s election. While County staff are obligated to refrain from political activity while at work, we all have the right and privilege to vote in the upcoming elections and encourage every eligible voter to do so. Orange County residents may obtain election information, including polling place locations and sample ballots, on the Orange County website ’ s Voter Registration and Elections section. Staff is already at work preparing for the orientation of new members and engaged in preliminary work to inform the new Board ’ s strategic planning process. As the outgoing Board Members reflect upon their tenure, I know they are proud of the work they ’ ve done to deliver on a strategic vision of a vibrant economy, sustainable land use and effective reflective government. With mixed emotions, we are both sad to see the end of a productive era in our community but filled with anticipation about the future. We look forward to working with our new elected leaders to create a vision for the next chapter in Orange County ’ s history.
We ’ re Here For You
Subscribe to the Orange County Insight
Orange County Administration
Physical Address 112 W. Main Street Orange, VA 22960 Mailing Address P.O. Box 111 Orange, VA 22960
Phone: (540) 672 - 3313
Subscribe to Orange County News & Alerts
Fax: (540) 672 - 1679
newsletter@orangecountyva.gov
orangecountyva.gov
Suggestion Box Leave a suggestion for the Editor
Cover Photo: Marine Corps AH - 1Z Viper at the Orange County Airport. Photo by Orange County staff.
Page | October 2023
Former Supervisor James P. Crozier Receives RRRC Government Leadership Award
By: Orange County Communications Department
On October 4, at the Rappahannock - Rapidan Regional Commission (RRRC) Annual Meeting & 50th Anniversary Celebration, former Orange County District Four Supervisor James “ Jim ” P. Crozier was honored with the Regional Leadership Government Award. According to RRRC ’ s website, the awards were created in 2007 to “ recognize members of government and citizens of the region for outstanding contributions to the Rappahannock - Rapidan region, and promotion/ advancement of enhanced communication, coordination, and regional planning across Planning District Nine. ”
James “ Jim ” Crozier, Barbara Crozier, Tamara Anderson, and Theordore “ Ted ” Voorhees at the RRRC Annual Meeting. Photo Courtesy of the RRRC.
Mr. Crozier retired from the Orange County Board of Supervisors effective July 5. He was nominated for his lifelong public service and dedicated involvement in many government boards and commissions. To name a few, he served on the Board of Supervisors, representing District Four, from 2014 until 2023, and was elected as Chairman in 2020 and 2021, and Vice Chairman in 2018 and 2019. Mr. Crozier is a 2019 graduate of the Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) Certified County Supervisor course and VACo's Chairpersons' Institute. Furthermore, he served on the VACo Board of Directors, the RRRC, Germanna - Wilderness Area Plan Steering Committee, the Orange County Economic Development Authority, the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, the Rapidan Service Authority Board of Directors, the Orange County Broadband Authority, and the Central Virginia Regional Jail Authority. Congratulations on the honor, Mr. Crozier! Orange County Earns Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting
By: Orange County Communications Department
The Orange County Finance Department is pleased to announce it has been awarded the Government Finance Officers Association ’ s (GFOA) Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2022. The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting. According to GFOA, “ To receive this achievement, the County ’ s annual comprehensive financial
report for fiscal year 2022 was judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program, which includes demonstrating a constructive ‘ spirit of full disclosure ’ to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the report. ” “ Orange County is fortunate to have such a talented and dedicated team driving our financial operations, ” said Glenda Bradley, Deputy County Administrator. “ This award is a reflection of the countless hours, tireless efforts, and high standards the Finance Department team brings to its role every day. Their achievements inspire confidence and trust among our stakeholders and play a pivotal role in our organization's success. ”
Page 2 | October 2023
Page 3 | October 2023
Page 4 | October 2023
Orange County Visitor Spending Increases by more than Four Percent from 2021 to 2022
By: Orange County Tourism & Orange County Communications Department
While we aren ’ t surprised, we are pleased to report the most recent statistics available from the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) indicate that Orange County continues to be a destination of choice for travelers. Visitor spending for Orange County reached $52.8 Million in 2022, a 4.5% increase over 2021. Tourism supported 485 jobs in Orange County while local tourism - related taxes were $2.2 Million. At the state level, Virginia enjoyed $30.3 billion in visitor spending in 2022, an increase of 20.3% from 2021, exceeding 2019 levels by 4.4%. The tourism industry in Virginia directly supported 210,721 jobs in 2022, an increase of more than 25,000 jobs relative to 2021, but still down about 30,000 jobs relative to 2019. All data is from Tourism Economics and is based on visitor spending from trips taken at least 50 miles away from home.
According to VTC, the leading tourism sectors in Virginia are recreation and food and beverage, which have exceeded 2019 levels by 10%. The local food and beverage industry in Orange County had a particularly
impressive year of growth with overall revenues of $15.1 million in 2022 compared to $13.8 million in 2021. Interested in sampling some delicious dining and craft beverage options? Visit www.visitorangevirginia.com/taste to learn more. While some effects of the pandemic still impact local industries, we are proud that tourism in Orange County has exhibited a strong recovery. Julie Perry, Assistant Director of Economic Development and Tourism, said “ Total tourism expenditures in Orange County exceeded pre - pandemic levels in 2021, so this extra growth in 2022 is especially exciting. It ’ s a tribute to the local attractions, small businesses and lodging facilities that make Orange County such a great place to visit! ”
Page 5 | October 2023
Page 6 | October 2023
Orange County Airport is a Hub for Business & Recreation
By: Orange County Communications Department
The Orange County Airport is an important resource in central Virginia, providing a high quality point of operations for a wide variety of aircraft. It is a “ general aviation ” airport, but what does that mean in terms of its operation? By definition, general aviation is “ the operation of civilian aircraft not under the control of a common carrier. ” 1 According to Airport Manager Paul Weber, it is usually “ considered all flying that is not military, or scheduled, or semi - scheduled passenger service, ” such as airlines. According to the FAA, approximately 88% of airports are designated general aviation.
An Air Tractor AT - 802 refills its seed supply at the Orange County Airport in mid - September. Virginia Seed Company contracted Crabbe Aviation to spread seed cover on several local farms.
Given the wide umbrella of general aviation, it ’ s not surprising that the Orange County Airport plays host to some pretty interesting aircraft, and some very important operations. In fact, “ so far this year, we have had about 6,300 aircraft operations (takeoffs or landings) at the airport, ” said Paul. Many residents are aware that the Airport is home to Skydive Orange, and has been since 1977. After all, those who have lived in Orange County long enough are sure to have seen the many colorful parachutes descending near the Airport. The club - operated dropzone is the most frequent user of the Airport, comprising about 39% of the overall aircraft operations (mostly using their 22 - seat Twin Otter), but varying according to season. Other users also contribute to the economic vibrancy of Orange County. Well - situated for access to central Virginia farms, the Airport
is a preferred site for crop - dusters spreading fertilizer, seed, and other agricultural compounds. It has hosted helicopters performing aerial trimming along power lines that are inaccessible to ground - based
crews and even the occasional military aircraft for maneuvers and refueling (like two Marine Corps attack helicopters which visited mid - October, pictured on the opposite page and on the cover). The Airport is also an excellent location for those interested in housing their private aircraft. It features a 3,200 foot runway and will accommodate turboprop and propeller driven aircraft of up to 12,500 pounds. Jet A and avgas are available for refueling onsite, and an AWOS III Automated Weather Observation System assists flight planning. The terminal itself is another attraction. It offers a comfortable pilot ’ s lounge, free WiFi access, a complimentary loaner car for ground transportation, and a modern conference room often used by local boards and organizations to host meetings.
1. “ General aviation. ” Merriam - Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam - Webster, https://www.merriam - webster.com/dictionary/general%20aviation. Accessed 6 Oct. 2023.
Page 7 | October 2023
Perhaps most stunning are the incredible examples of model aircraft from the collection of Hubert Compton. The County owns ten T - hangars and 19 tie - down spots to support aircraft based at or visiting the airport. Onsite, Tracey Corporation owns another 18 T - hangars for lease to private citizens and businesses. As a testament to its desirability for general aviation, approximately 40 aircraft are currently housed at the Orange County Airport, and
a waiting list is in place for the hangar and tie - down spots. However, to accommodate the high demand, staff are currently considering options for expanding facilities. Stay tuned for more information about increased availability. Speaking of availability, the former Orange County Airport terminal, located right off of Route 20 near the intersection with Porter Road, is currently wrapping up renovations to serve as future office space for local
businesses. This facility offers a convenient, central location in Orange County with ample parking and direct access to Route 20. Prospective tenants can lease the entirety of the office space (hangar not included), but the space is also divisible for those that do not need the full area of over 1,500 square feet. In a divided configuration, the space can house two to three separate offices. The former terminal presents a
great opportunity for an aviation - related firm, or any business that would enjoy the beautiful backdrop of the airport and our area ’ s scenic rolling hills. Those interested in renting this space are encouraged to contact (540) 672 - 2185 for more information.
Page 8 | October 2023
Cybersecurity Awareness Month Reminds Us to Be Prepared
By: Orange County Communications Department
Since 2004, the President of the United States and Congress have declared the month of October to be Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a dedicated month for the public and private sectors to work together to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity. Orange County takes cybersecurity seriously. Online threats to technology and confidential data are more commonplace than ever. It is important to stay cyber secure both at work and at home to deter cyber - attacks. Orange County has multiple lines of protection at the local, state, and federal level to help keep employees secure. County employees are required to regularly participate in cybersecurity training through KnowBe4. In this training, staff develop their security knowledge and culture to become more aware of network security, and become more proficient at recognizing threats. "Taking time to set up multi - factor authentication is one of the best ways to protect yourself ” said Larry Clement, Director of Information Technology. This process grants a user access to a website or application only after successfully presenting two or more pieces of evidence to an authentication mechanism. It is more secure than a password alone. This sentiment is echoed by the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), an organization of the Department of Homeland Security. This year, CISA has outlined four easy steps (with video instructions) to improve online safety, and one of those is utilizing multi - factor authentication. Other recommendations include using strong passwords and password managers, recognizing and reporting phishing attempts, and keeping your software current with the latest updates.
For more detailed information about cybersecurity, visit www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity - awareness - month.
Page 9 | October 2023
Information Technology Continues Making Waves with Rubber Ducks
By: Joshua Crawford, Business Systems Analyst, Information Technology Department
In a quack - tastic turn of events, employees who filled out the IT in September survey were entered into a drawing to win a rubber duck. The lucky winners were thrilled to receive their new prize. "I'm so excited to have won!" said one winner. "I've always been a big fan of rubber ducks. They're so cute, and they always make me smile." Another winner is planning to put their new rubber duck on their desk at work. "I think it will be a great reminder to have a little fun and not take things too seriously," they said.
The IT department decided to give away rubber ducks as a prize because they wanted to show their appreciation for employees who took the time to fill out the survey. The survey was designed to gather feedback from employees on a variety of topics, including professionalism, communication, and satisfaction of service. "We're grateful to all of our employees who took the time to fill out the survey," said Larry Clement, Information Technology Director. "Their feedback is invaluable to us as we work to provide a better helpdesk response for everyone."
In addition to the rubber duck prize, the department also announced that they will be implementing some of the suggestions that employees made in the survey. For example, the department will be introducing a helpdesk portal in the future. "We're committed to listening to our users and making changes that will improve their work experience," said Larry. So, there you have it. Next time you're asked to fill out a Help Desk survey, remember that you could be quacking your way to a new prize!
September Winners:
Walker Merryman – FiberLync
Peggy Helmick – Building and Development Services
Stephanie Straub – Assistant County Administrator
Mike Throckmorton – Fire Marshal
Amanda Amos – Contract & Procurement Specialist
Page 10 | October 2023
Read All About It! Orange County Libraries Offer Access to News Sources
By: Orange County Library
Last month was Library Card Sign - Up Month! Residents of Orange County (as well as those of Albemarle, Culpeper, Greene, Louisa, Madison, Nelson, and Spotsylvania) who took the opportunity to get their card have probably already begun to discover the many benefits available through our library system. However, we ’ d like to take a moment and highlight access to America ’ s News.
This service allows users to explore and stay informed on local and national topics, people, and events in areas such as business, health, education, jobs and careers, political and social issues and more, updated daily. Over 3,000 credible, vetted news sources spanning the U.S are available. Of particular local interest are flip - page, full - image versions of several papers including the Charlottesville Daily Progress, the Culpeper Star - Exponent, and the Richmond Times - Dispatch. Searchable access is included for the Madison Eagle, Fredericksburg Free - Lance Star, the Washington Times and over 50 other Virginia newspapers. The Orange County Review is available going back to 2008! Want to check the news where you used to live, or where family members are? Use the clickable map to search papers across the U.S. America ’ s News also includes transcripts from major TV networks and some magazines including the Atlantic, Newsweek, Popular Science, and Smithsonian. These services are free and available remotely to those holding an Orange County library card. Visit any branch to get started.
Page 11 | October 2023
Page 12 | October 2023
Top Row
20 th Century Ghosts by Joe Hill The Library of the Dead by T.L. Huchu The Silent Companions by Laura Percell The Collected Works of Edgar Allan Poe
The Shadows by Alex North The Cloisters by Katy Hays
Middle Row
Bellman & Black by Diane Setterfield A Winter Haunting by Dan Simmons
Bottom Row
The Woman In Black by Susan Hill A Shadow on the Wall by Jonathan Aycliffe Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno - Garcia The Last Heir to Blackwood Library by Hester Fox Gideon the Ninth by Tamsyn Muir Hex by Thomas Olde Heuvelt
Page 13 | October 2023
Page 13 | October 2023
Page 14 | October 2023 Page 14 | October 2023
COFEMS Launches Grant - Funded Shelter Trailer
By: Orange County Communications Department
Earlier this month, COFEMS staff prepped the new Shelter Trailer, an innovative project to help our staff be prepared for quicker deployment of necessary supplies to established shelters in the event of a disaster, such as the power outage experienced by approximately 96% of our residents in early January 2022. Among its many supplies, the shelter trailer is
equipped with 100 cots, divided into “ pods ” allowing for easy distribution to separate shelter locations. This project was made possible thanks to a Virginia Department of
Emergency Management State Homeland Security Grant, and will be a resource not only to Orange
County, but to all of the localities with which we have mutual aid agreements upon request. We are proud of the continued efforts of our first responders to envision innovative solutions to provide additional security and safety to our residents.
Page 15 | October 2023
Fire Prevention Week was October 8 - 14. Learn more about fire safety and prevention on the National Fire Protection Association website at www.fpw.org
Page 16 | October 2023
Page 17 | October 2023
Page 18 | October 2023
Parks & Rec. Celebrates a Decade of Office Disguises
By: Orange County Communications Department
A fall favorite event, the OCPR Office Costume Contest is entering its tenth year of bringing coworkers together for joy and light - hearted competition. The first contest was held in 2014, but the roots of the event can be found in the prior year, when Parks & Recreation staff were inspired by the impressive group costumes being sported by the Orange County Treasurer ’ s Office. Witnessing firsthand the fun and fellowship they enjoyed, plans were made to spread that spirit to the greater Orange County community. The 2014 contest was extended to businesses, offices, agencies, and departments physically located in Orange County, VA, a
restriction which still holds today. That first event received twelve entries, with first place going to Dogwood Village Activities Department for their farmtastic scarecrow outfits. From there, the contest has steadily grown in terms of participation and costume quality. The contest has received at least 10 entries every year (the most ever was 20 in 2019), with an average of 91 costumed participants (the most was 139, also in 2019). It was one of the few programs to continue through the COVID - 19 pandemic without drastic changes. After all, masks have always been an important part of costumes.
The Parks & Recreation Department is always amazed to see the creativity displayed by the entrants, but as we reflect on the contest as a whole, there have been a few repeat winners that deserve a special mention. The Orange County Office on Youth earned their first win with a surplus of silliness as the Looney Tunes in 2016. Next, they became our first back - to - back winners in 2017, riding to first place in costume roller coaster seats. In 2018, they established their legacy with a third win as the
Addams family. Administrative Assistant Rosanna Zamudio helped coordinate many of these award - winning entries, and loves the competitive aspect, “ The prize is worth the effort!, ” said Rosanna. Another dynasty is fittingly found in the contest ’ s original inspiration, the Orange County Treasurer ’ s Office. Either on their own or as a partner group, they ’ ve accumulated the most total wins of any participant. Their record currently standing at four first - place finishes, including a streak from 2020 - 2022.They ’ ve found a strong niche with costume ideas from the silver screen, and have impressed judges with themes based on Beetlejuice, Willy
Wonka, and the many characters played by Johnny Depp. Heather Joyce, the Treasurer ’ s Office ’ s Chief Deputy (and architect of many incredible costumes) focuses on the joy of the contest, “ Fun is the fuel that ignites friendships and laughter, ” said Heather. “ The competition allows us to show our creativity and be competitive in a friendly way, ” added Dawn Herndon, Orange County Treasurer. Follow Orange County Parks & Recreation on Facebook to see former winners of this contest highlighted in celebration of this program ’ s enduring impact. Inspired? There ’ s still time to participate! Visit www.orangecountyva.gov/costumes to enter your group. We look forward to this years entries!
Page 19 | October 2023
Page 20 | October 2023
4 - H Awards Presented to Participants and Supporters at Orange County Fairgrounds
By: Kaci Daniel, Extension Agent, Unit Coordinator, Virginia Cooperative Extension - Orange Unit
Orange 4 - H celebrated 2023 4 - H year achievements with a ceremony September 17 at the Orange County Fairgrounds. Farm Credit was designated as the Partner of 4 - H for ongoing support of Ag Day, Farm Tour, Ag in the Classroom, county fair shows, and the new 90’ x 100’ pavilion at the fairgrounds for 4 - H use. Tom Gilbert of H20 Livestock in Gordonsville was named Friend of 4 - H for hosting school tours, club meetings, and providing labor and equipment for a variety of 4 - H programming. Connor Dodson received the Gold Award for dedication to 4 - H and outstanding attendance, usually 95% or better! Connor works behind the scenes to support other youth and is active in many community service projects. The Harry T. Peters, Jr. Award recognizes a senior age youth who works hard and demonstrates the ideals of 4 - H. Cheyenne Henderson was selected for her leadership in the 4 - H junior camp, TACO, and Cloverbud day camp settings, her dedication to the 4 - H Dairy Club, and her willingness to try new projects in the 4 - H Livestock Club.
Cheyenne Henderson, winner of the county - wide Harry T. Peters, Jr. Award for leadership. Photo Courtesy of Orange 4 - H.
Six youth earned county - level honors for demonstration of good character: Kaid Altman – Trustworthy, Jonas Hitt – Respect, Thomas Garth – Responsibility, Alex Herndon – Fairness, James Edward – Caring, and Carly Gallahan – Citizenship. Gymnastics Vaults Back into Parks & Rec. Programming!
By: Orange County Communications Department
Orange County Parks & Recreation is always looking forward for new programs to serve our community, but every now and then, the best program requires a look back. That is certainly true with the return of gymnastics to Parks & Recreation ’ s offerings. Once one of our most popular programs, it has not been offered since the mid - 2010s due to the lack of a regularly available, suitable location. However, thanks to new availability and the support of Orange County Public Schools, the program returned on October 12! Providing floor, vault, and beam exercises for ages 4 - 6 and 7 - 10, the initial pilot program had limited availability. It quickly became clear that interest was still strong in the area, as both age groups filled and held large waiting lists. Given this strong interest, we are excited to look at opportunities to expand this program and serve the community!
Visit www.orangecountyva.gov/ocpr to view our list of programs, or register to participate. Call (540) 672 - 5435 with any questions or to suggest a program idea!
Page 21 | October 2023
Page 22 | October 2023
LOW Players Fall Musical (Guys & Dolls) October 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22
Orange Downtown Alliance Trick or Treat October 31
88th Running of the Montpelier Hunt Races November 4
Woodbrook Farm Vineyard Christmas Market December 3
Inn at Willow Grove Murder Mystery Dinner December 16
Find more fun events at: www.visitorangevirginia.com
Page 23 | October 2023
Locust Grove Middle School
Page 24 | October 2023
Page 25 | October 2023
2023 - 2024 Orange County Public Schools Calendar Approved February 6, 2023
Page 26 | October 2023
26 years, Kathryn Hill, Library
3 years, Shawn Helton, Sheriff's Office
23 years, Mark Sikora, Fire & EMS
3 years, Tyler Nolasco, Sheriff's Office
20 years, Roger Wilson, Fire & EMS
2 years, James Booker, Landfill
15 years, Noah Madden, Fire & EMS
2 years, Davanna Ford, Office on Youth
13 years, Peyton Fincham, Landfill
2 years, Tabatha Rhoades, Social Services
13 years, Randy Williams, Fire & EMS
1 years, Robyn Chapman, Office on Youth
11 years, Eric Mackison, Fire & EMS
1 years, Mia Haggart, Social Services
11 years, David McMaster, Sheriff's Office
1 years, Edward Hamner, Fiberlync
10 years, Linda Kennedy, Social Services
1 years, Andrew Horn, Airport
10 years, Michelle Pursel, Library
1 years, John Jones, Landfill
9 years, Xiushka Gibson, Sheriff's Office
1 years, Cassandra Keaton, Emergency Communications
8 years, Michelle Williams, Administration
1 years, Courtney Robinson, Office on Youth
6 years, Kathy Cash, Development Services
1 years, Mollie Rudisill, Social Services
4 years, Robin Breckenridge, Social Services
Page 27 | October 2023
Administrative Assistant - Circuit Court Clerk's Office Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Community Paramedic County Assessor Deputy Sheriff Emergency Communications Officer Family Services Specialist II, Foster Care/In Home Practice (Hybrid) Family Services Specialist II, Foster Care Family Services Specialist II, Family Engagement Family Services Specialist III Fiber Technician Public Works Director Training Coordinator - Emergency Communications
Child Care Lead Teacher - GBES Child Care Lead Teacher - LGPS Child Care Lead Teacher - OES
Child Care Teacher - GBES Child Care Teacher - LGPS Child Care Teacher - OES
Child Care Teacher Assistant - GBES Child Care Teacher Assistant - LES Child Care Teacher Assistant - LGPS Child Care Teacher Assistant - OES FAPT Coordinator Landfill Scale Operator Support Staff Technician - Office on Youth
Page 28 | October 2023
October County Cup Competition is a Blustery Good Time!
By: Tim Moubray, Director, Orange County Parks & Recreation
The most recent County Cup event mirrored the May competition, but this time with a fall twist! In the spirit of the (sometimes frustrating) leaf cleanup chores that many of us face in our yards, we tasked staff with
gathering as many leaves as possible in the “ Tube of Turbulence. ” We had 51 folks come out to help us get those pesky leaves. Over 1,000 leaves were tossed about in the tube, with varying point values based on their relative prevalence, but there was only one special golden glittery leaf worth 100 points! Once the wind picked up, participants had 30 seconds to gather as many as possible. Amanda Sorrells (Animal Shelter and Team Ops) was our winner with 2,679 points. She was followed in second place by Jessica Lohr (Team E911) and in third place by Jennifer McGuire (Team Admin/HR).
Out of 51 players, only five people caught the special golden leaf, our champion being one of them. Amanda will receive one of our brand new OCPR stadium/travel blankets. The other four are Julie Perry (Team EconDev/Tourism), Jen Fox (Team Admin/HR), Amanda Amos (Team Finance), and Gail Lloyd (Team OOY). Those five skilled leaf grabbers will receive their very own miniature Golden Rake (a.k.a. “ backscratcher ”). While Team DSS received no points this time, they still hold a comfortable lead ….. for now. The battle for second has gotten fierce with only 6.5 points separating Finance, Public Works, and Ops. Things are heating up just in time for some surprises … Stay tuned for next month ’ s Orange County Cup results.
Now reaching the latter part of its inaugural year, the County Cup is a morale - boosting and team - building set of activities that support our cultural initiative work. Are you a talented individual Interested in working for an award - winning organization that values a strong employee culture? Visit www.orangecountyva.gov/jobs (or check out page 28) to view our current open positions!
Page 29 | October 2023
Page 30 | October 2023
INSIGHT Please subscribe to our newsletter and receive this insightful newsletter delivered to your electronic mailbox every month. In its current format, the newsletter has been published every month since October 2020! Be sure to add newsletter@orangecountyva.gov to your contacts so the newsletter is not delivered to your spam or junk folder.
Citizens Ask...
Q: How much does it cost to dispose of items at the Landfill? A : Regular bagged household waste can be discarded at most of our collection sites at no cost. Landfill tipping fees for items like brush, tires, or white goods can be found online at www.orangecountyva.gov/512/ Tipping - Fees. Call (540) 672 - 9315 with any questions about particular items. Q: How do I view the Orange County budget? A : The current Orange County budget, along with that of many previous fiscal years, is available online at www.orangecountyva.gov/140/County - Budget. A PDF - based version is available, as well as a web - based version hosted by ClearGov.
Page 31 | October 2023
Upcoming Orange County Meetings
*Correction to Meeting Times 10/16/23
Board of Supervisors
Planning Commission
Tuesday, Oct. 24, 5:00 p.m.
• Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023, 6:00 p.m. Economic Development Authority • Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023, 5:30 p.m. at 109 West Main Street, Orange, VA 22960
•
• Wednesday, Nov. 15, 2023, 6:00 p.m. at 205 Lake of the Woods Parkway, Locust Grove, VA 22508
•
Public Comment during this Meeting
Unless otherwise noted, listed meetings are held at: Board of Supervisors ’ Meeting Room Orange County Public Safety Building 11282 Government Center Drive, Orange, VA 22960
This information is for reference only. Specific information about hearing topics and schedules will be available in that meeting ’ s agenda packet when published. Agendas can be accessed in the online Agenda Center. Please note that due to the monthly publication schedule of this newsletter, it is possible that some upcoming public hearings may not be listed. Pursuant to the applicable section of the Code of Virginia, notices for all public hearings will be posted in our newspaper of circulation (The Orange County Review) at least seven days prior to the hearing date, or as required by code.
Jennifer McGuire
Get to know Orange County staff... The Personnel File:
Wellness Program Manager
Jennifer McGuire is Orange County ’ s Wellness Program Manager, a new position in our Human Resources Department which began in January 2023 with the goal of supporting our team members in new and innovative ways. “ I love that my job blends all things wellness and that it allows for meeting people where they are at and helping them with whatever their need may be at that time, ” Jennifer said. “ Wellness is a holistic practice... I believe that doing what fills your cup, lifts you up, helps you thrive (whatever it may be at that moment) is wellness, ” she added. Jennifer has a background working with D - 1 collegiate athletes, but one of her favorite memories was working with an individual who ’ s goal was to be able to get back up off the mat without assistance. “ It was emotional because this was huge for this person and I had the opportunity to help them on their path, ” she said.
Juanesta Williams
Support Technician
While we can testify that she is ordinarily very active and highly motivated (she recently underwent some Fire & EMS equipment practice just to better understand it), she says her “ guiltiest pleasure at the moment is playing Candy Crush into mindless bliss. ” She has yet to find music that she doesn ’ t enjoy. With that in mind, she requests that you “ don ’ t make fun of me if you see me riding around town with my windows down and gangster rap or bluegrass blaring! ” No problem, Jennifer!
Page 32 | October 2023
Orange County Communications Department 112 W. Main Street P.O. Box 111 Orange, VA 22960
POSTAL CUSTOMER
Meet Fleetwood Fleetwood is a fabulous young adult retriever and pit bull terrier mix. He came to us as a stray that no one ever came looking for. This boy has a goofy demeanor and is always wearing a huge smile. He loves to walk and hang out in the play yards. He has done well with dogs he has met. He ’ s curious about cats, but respectful of them wanting nothing to do with him. Proper introductions with any dog/cat he will be living with be the key to lifelong friendships! Fleetwood tries really hard to keep his kennel clean and understand that outside is where he needs to potty. Patience and consistency will help him settle into a potty - training routine! Fleetwood is neutered, microchipped and is current on all vaccines including rabies. He has been given a dewormer and started on flea/tick prevention, heartworm tested (NEGATIVE) and given heartworm prevention. More info about Fleetwood is available on Petfinder. If interested, please visit www.orangecountyva.gov/adoptapet, and complete the new online - based Pet Pre - Adoption Application. Visit us on Facebook Find Adoptable Pets (540) 672 - 1124 Directions: 11362 Porter Road Orange VA 22960
Find your new best friend at the
Orange County Animal Shelter
Page 33 | October 2023
Page i Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33Made with FlippingBook Online newsletter