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
Remembering Janice Corbin Crockett, Former Assistant County Administrator Page 2
Orange County Wins NACo Award for Public Safety Page 6 Playin ’ in the Park Scheduled for Friday, July 1, 2022 Pages 17 - 18
JUNE 2022
Page | June, 2022
Team Orange,
All we do is Win, Win, Win!
This month we feature some of the individual, team and organizational recognitions for the championship work we are doing to serve the citizens of Orange County. As the Stanley Cup finals are underway, the College World Series continues, and the NBA playoffs are drawing to a close, it ’ s time to talk a bit about what it takes to be a champion. No surprise … its teamwork! Teamwork is our superpower and drives the accolades mentioned above. I am excited that we have kicked off our culture of teamwork initiative through organizational development sessions with our Senior Leadership, and later this week with our Key Leaders group. Here, we are learning about ourselves and each other, and what it takes to work effectively as a team. And I ’ m excited to say there is more to come. We ’ ll be able to announce another award for Team Orange next month after it becomes official. I couldn ’ t be prouder that we are being recognized by our peers and national organizations for our performance.
Let ’ s keep winning! Go Team Orange!
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Page | June, 2022 Page 1 | June, 2022
Remembering the Service of Janice Crockett, Former Assistant County Administrator
By: Orange County Communications Department Photography Courtesy of the Family of Mrs. Janice Crockett
Orange County mourns the loss of a long - time public servant with the passing of Janice Corbin Crockett on Thursday, May 19, 2022. Born March 7, 1937, in Charlottesville, Virginia, Mrs. Crockett began her service with the County of Orange in May 1974. She served our residents dutifully, in exemplary fashion, for more than 25 years until her retirement at the end of September 1999. Mrs. Crockett served as the Assistant County Administrator during the tenure of County Administrator Brenda Garton Bailey. The responsibilities of her position were wide - reaching, requiring a variety of skills ranging from finances, to human resources (as the Benefits and Personnel Officer), to public works - related functions like supervising building and grounds staff.
Though there are few current employees who had the pleasure of directly working with Mrs. Crockett, she is still regarded fondly, particularly among employees in the Administration and Human Resources Departments. In fact, her retirement letter made particular note that she enjoyed working with the employees, and she joked, “ Don ’ t think you are rid of me … I will stop by from time to time to catch up. ” True to her word, she continued to stop by the Administration Office on occasion. Karen Gibson, Human
Resources Specialist, recalled some of these visits. “ She just made you laugh and brightened the office [when she visited]. ” R. Mark Johnson, current Chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, served his first term on the Board while Mrs. Crockett was serving in Administration. He recalled her as professional and detail - oriented. “ Janice was an institution in the Orange County offices and could always provide answers to questions regarding the county's finances. Back in the 1990s and before, the Board of Supervisors received a printout of every check written on County accounts as part of the monthly board meeting packet. A member might ask "What is this $88 paid to Byram's Sunoco?" Janice would quickly grab the proper file...and explain it was for a state inspection, a battery, and rear brakes, etc., ” remembered Mr. Johnson.
Mrs. Crocket participates in a Business and Professional Women Club event in September 1987. Pictured L to R: J. Clark, J. Kube, J. Crockett, and A. Busick.
Janice Corbin Crockett ’ s positive attitude and professional dedication to Orange County residents serves as an example for current and future Orange County employees. We appreciate her many years of excellent service.
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Orange County Staff Earn Awards at Virginia Association of Public - Safety Communications Officials Conference
By: Holly Williams, Communications Supervisor, Orange County Emergency Communications
In May, members of the Orange County Emergency Communications team traveled to Virginia Beach for the Spring NENA/APCO Conference. This year ’ s conference had the largest number of attendees ever! During a conference luncheon, the 2021 APCO Award winners were announced and celebrated for their achievements. Orange County was the recipient of two of the awards! Cole Shifflett, Radio Systems Manager for Orange County, was awarded the 2021 Information Technologist of the Year award. Cole was chosen among the entries for his dedication to seeing the new public safety building come to life with the addition of several new systems, including the state - of - the - art P25 L3 Harris Radio
Jeremy Cole (right) receives his award.
System. This new radio system allows better coverage for first responders throughout Orange County. Cole worked tirelessly to fix the systems, which included radio consoles for the new dispatch center, mobile and portable radios in the patrol cars and fire & rescue vehicles, as well as the mobile app for the radio, which allows units to communicate on the radio system from their phones when out of the county. Cole was deserving of this award for how well he managed the systems, and for bringing everything online at the opening of our new Public - Safety Building.
Jeremy Brown, a Communications Supervisor with the Orange County Emergency Communications Center was the recipient of the 2021 Nicholas Stepaniak Trainer of the Year award. This award is named in memory of Nicholas Stepaniak who was an Assistant Director for Stafford County that lost a brave battle to cancer. Despite the diagnosis, Nick showed up each day to make sure his team was trained adequately and had the resources needed to do the job. Nick was caring, passionate, and dedicated. Jeremy was chosen for displaying the same qualities that Nick embodied. Jeremy has been with Orange County Emergency Communications Center (ECC) for about two and a half years, working through the ranks and embracing the necessary training required of a 9 - 1 - 1 dispatcher. As a trainer, Jeremy is extremely patient with new hires, taking the time to
Brandy Stepaniak visits with Jeremy Brown at the Public Safety Building Open House.
show them the processes and make sure they understand. Recently, Jeremy took a new hire from another agency and helped rebuild her confidence in herself and her ability to do the job. Jeremy is dedicated. He has not missed a single day since he started in 2019, ensuring trainees never had to go without him on a shift. To make this award a little sweeter, Brandy Stepaniak, widow of Nick, came to the Public Safety Building Open House to meet Jeremy. She was thrilled to hear how similar Jeremy was and learn about his dedication to training new hires.
Orange County Staff earn APCO awards. Pictured L to R: C. Cord, J. Brown, C. Shifflett, H. Williams
Both Cole and Jeremy were very deserving recipients this year. Please congratulate them on this amazing accomplishment. On hand to cheer them on when receiving these awards were Chris Cord, Director of the Emergency Communications Center and Holly Williams, Communications Supervisor of the Emergency Communications Center.
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Public Safety Building Open House Event Welcomes Residents for Tours, Information, and Lunch
By: Orange County Communications Department
Orange County ’ s Public Safety Building is designed to serve residents around the clock, sending support when help is needed during emergencies. However, for a few hours on May 24, the building served in a new way, inviting residents inside to learn more about the staff housed onsite and to enjoy a free hotdog lunch! Despite rainy weather conditions, dozens of folks ventured out to receive a behind - the - scenes tour guided by public safety personnel. Since construction began, residents have been curious about the facility, which offers new and award - winning (see next page) capabilities. With that in mind, staff organized the open house event with the intent of
County Administrator T. Voorhees and Deputy County Administrator G. Bradley (pictured) served as grill masters for the event.
highlighting the great folks who work there. Guided tours left approximately every half hour, beginning with the Sheriff ’ s Office (led by Sheriff Mark Amos), followed by the Emergency Communications Center (led by
Emergency Communications Director Chris Cord), continuing through Information Technology (led by IT Director Larry Clement), and finishing in the Fire & EMS Department (led by Asst. Chief / Fire Marshall Mike Throckmorton).
While awaiting a tour, visitors were able to talk with staff at informational booths set up in the rotunda. Tables included representatives from Communications, the Litter Control Committee, Triad, Emergency Communications, the Office on Youth, the Extension Office, the Animal Shelter, the Library, Social Services, and Parks & Recreation. This exhibition provided a valuable opportunity for staff to discuss upcoming programs and services, and for residents to share their ideas. A slideshow ran continuously in the Board of Supervisors ’ meeting room featuring pictures of the Public Safety Building from the beginning of construction to the ribbon cutting on December 21, 2021. Orange County staff help prepare the Public Safety Building for visitors. Pictured L to R: J. Lohr, J. Walker, C. Hawkins
Lunch was provided for all open house guests courtesy of our grill masters, County Administrator Theodore “ Ted ” Voorhees and Deputy County Administrator Glenda Bradley. Along with a hotdog, lunch included chips, a cookie, and a drink. Participants remarked that it was great to get the opportunity to see how Orange County ’ s public safety agencies operate, and staff were excited to share the new facility with the public.
Sheriff Amos collects visitors to begin a tour.
Page 5 | June, 2022
Orange County ’ s Connected Public Safety Advancements Earn National Association of Counties Achievement Award
By: Orange County Communications Department
Orange County recently earned nationwide attention, focused on the related projects of our “ Connected Public Safety Advancements. ” After reviewing our nomination, the National Association of Counties (NACo) determined that the effective implementation and revolutionary nature of our Public Safety Building, P25 Digital Radio infrastructure, and Computer - Aided Dispatch system were worthy of recognition with a 2022 Achievement Award. NACo Achievement Awards are given in 18 different categories that reflect the vast, comprehensive services counties provide. The awards honor innovative, effective county government programs that strengthen services for residents. Orange County ’ s “ Connected Public Safety Advancements ” certainly fit that bill.
While the Public Safety Building is the largest physical component of our advancements, there are two (2) key supporting technologies that have recently been adopted. Interwoven into the larger plan, they are the
Computer - Aided Dispatch (CAD) system and the P25 Land Mobile Radio (LMR) system. Each provides breakthrough advances compared to prior solutions, but working together and coupled with the aforementioned infrastructure of the new building, the improvement is revolutionary.
The Computer - Aided Dispatch (or CAD) system allows our Emergency Communications (E - 911) staff to access additional resources and transmit information to first responders. The system is intelligent enough to automatically cross reference and correlate previously disconnected information points from cross - departmental datasets. That information is then delivered, in
real time, to the MDTs (mobile data terminals) present in response vehicles, or mobile devices. For example, it can provide a deputy with information about a suspect ’ s prior police interactions or inform an EMT about a patient ’ s self - reported medical history. This knowledge serves to promote best possible outcomes and safety during emergency responses.
A radio tower site under construction.
Our connected public safety advancements have achieved decades ’ worth of improvements in just a few short years. Doing so required the concerted effort of elected leaders and both our administrative and operationally - focused staff members, as well as constant communication with vendors and outside organizations. This collaboration fostered new relationships and partnerships. As such, these advancements and the implementation behind them have brought immediate and transformative changes to our public safety services, while creating an atmosphere receptive to further improvement. The ultimate beneficiaries of these projects are our residents, who can rest assured that our personnel are supported by state - of - the - art tools when responding to an emergency.
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Staff Enjoy Food, Fun, and Fellowship During Public Works Appreciation Event
By: Orange County Communications Department
Public works departments literally keep the wheels turning for counties, cities, and towns nationwide. Often operating behind - the - scenes, public works staff nevertheless fill a crucial role and often employ some of a locality ’ s most essential personnel. They serve in a variety of roles and provide a wide range of services, both internally to other staff, and externally to residents. In Orange County, for example, our Public Works Department houses Buildings & Grounds, Landfill & Solid Waste Collections, and Airport divisions. Without their service, operations would undoubtedly come to a grinding halt.
May 15 - 21 is recognized nationally as Public Works Week, which helps bring attention to the important role played by public works personnel. Our Public Works ’ leadership decided to go a step further and organize a “ Public Works Appreciation Day ” event on Wednesday, May 18, at Booster Park.
This event was the best - attended appreciation event in Public Works ’ history. More than 30 employees from across the Department ’ s several divisions gathered under the pavilion to enjoy a catered lunch, connect with other employees, and participate in a cornhole tournament. In anticipation of the friendly competition, some staff had begun preparing the prior week during their lunch break at a practice event guided by Parks & Recreation. The practice certainly paid off, as some employees proved to be highly skilled at the classic tailgate game. Building upon this success, some staff are interested in holding an ongoing lunchtime competition, to determine champions and award fun prizes.
Everyone enjoyed a delicious catered lunch, as well as desserts!
Orange County is supported by a dedicated group of staff across all of our departments, and we appreciate the service of every one. Please take some time to thank our public works staff. Those interested in joining the team should view our current job openings at www.orangecountyva.gov/jobs.
Parks & Recreation helped guide those new to cornhole, during a lunchtime practice, so they could prepare for the tournament to be held the following week during the appreciation event.
Page 9 | June, 2022
A Stitch in Time … Orange County Public Works Returns Courthouse Clock to Operation
By: Orange County Communications Department
Orange County ’ s courthouse clock is installed in its intriguing Tuscan - style tower. It features three (3) distinct clock faces, facing approximately east, west, and south. Unfortunately, it has been decades since the clock has been correct more than twice a day, and most residents don ’ t remember it ever being functional. However, the future looks bright, as our Public Works Department has set the hands of time in motion once again. The clock was purchased used in 1924 thanks to the fundraising efforts of the Orange Campfire Girls. According to a plaque next to the timekeeping mechanism, it is a product of E. Howard & Co., of Boston, Massachusetts.
Ryan Dewyea, Orange County Public Works Director, worked personally to figure out the clock ’ s mechanisms and to get the gears turning again. He found some archived papers about the main types of clocktower mechanisms. While not an exact match, Dewyea was able to find a diagram that was similar to the courthouse clock, and using this, was able to deduce its operation. The craftsmanship of the old clock was demonstrated when only minor repairs and some grease were needed to get it ticking once again. Similar to a grandfather clock, it is gravity - driven. Winding it raises a weight, which stores energy that is slowly released as the weight falls. That energy drives the pendulum and the gears
The mechanism is roughly the size of a dishwasher.
that operate the clockface ’ s hands. A similar device operates the chime; a separate weight provides the energy for the striker to ring the bell the proper number of times on the hour. Since this weight drops each
time the bell is struck (156 times per day), it must be able to drop much further than the timekeeping weight to avoid “ bottoming out. ” Impressively, it is able to drop all the way to the Courthouse ’ s basement through a dedicated chute. Both weights must be regularly wound for the clock to fully operate, and much of the mechanisms of the clock are in place to synchronize these two (2) actions. Mr. Dewyea has observed that the clock seems able to operate for up to a week before needing to be wound again.
Those observing the clock will notice that two (2) faces are currently operational. The third (facing westward) is missing hands. Mr. Dewyea has searched and found that the internal pieces seem to all be present, albeit disassembled. He is currently looking into options to return the third face to operation as well. In the mean time, keep a “ watch ” ful eye on the clock. Public Works Director Ryan Dewyea winds the clock.
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Volunteer Firefighters Needed! Visit www.joinocvafireems.org!
Page 12 | June, 2022
Upcoming Primary Will be First Election to Use New Districts, Precincts, and Polling Places
By: Orange County Communications Department
Tuesday, June 21, 2022, will mark the date of the first election to utilize the new districts, precincts, and polling places determined from the decennial redistricting process. New voter cards were mailed to registered voters by the Orange County Office of Voter Registration & Elections during the week of May 15, 2022. Voters should have received an updated card regardless of whether their district, precinct, or polling place changed. Residents should refer to this card to confirm the proper location at which they should vote. Please note that a voter ’ s precinct or polling place may have changed, even if their district remained the same. Orange County offers an online list of polling locations and an interactive polling place map to assist voters with determining their proper polling location.
In addition to voting in - person on Election Day using the new locations, early voting is available through Saturday, June 18, 2022, at the Voter Registration Office, located at 146 North Madison Road, Suite 204, Orange, VA 22960. Voting hours match the business hours of the location (Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), except Saturday ’ s hours, which will be 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. A ballot drop box will also be available at this location. Drop boxes will also be available at regular polling places on the date of the election, Tuesday, June 21, 2022, from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Those with questions should contact the Office of Voter Registrations & Elections at (540) 672 - 5262 or vote@orangecountyva.gov.
Page 13 | June, 2022
Orange County Planning Commission Meetings Now Livestreamed in the Agendas & Minutes Portal
By: Orange County Communications Department
Orange County Planning Commission Meetings have joined the Board of Supervisors ’ Meetings, and are now livestreamed through a built - in feature of the Orange County website: the “ Agendas and Minutes ” portal. This function will replace the YouTube channel for livestreaming purposes.
Accessing the livestream is simple. Follow these steps:
1. Begin by visiting the Orange County, Virginia website, located at www.orangecountyva.gov.
2. Click the “ Agendas and Minutes ” icon on the homepage. It is located just below the logo, and is the third icon from the left. This will take you to the “ Agendas and Minutes ” portal. 3. Current and future meetings will be displayed at the top. If a current meeting is available for livestreaming, you will see a red “ LIVE ” icon to the left of the meeting listing. 4. Click the meeting text for the meeting you wish to watch. It will read “ Board of Supervisors ’ Regular Meeting, ” “ Board of Supervisors ’ Worksession, ” or “ Planning Commission Regular Meeting. ” 5. A new window will open. At the top left of this window is a video interface. Click the “ Play ” arrow to begin your livestream. From this window, you can also view the agenda and relevant meeting documents. Past meeting recordings and agendas are also available for viewing in the “ Agendas and Minutes ” portal. This feature is a great resource to help citizens stay connected to their government ’ s activities. For additional guidance, a “ How - To ” video is available on the Orange County Local Government Facebook page.
Page 14 | June, 2022
Michael ’ s Mile Color Powder Fun Run Raises Funds and Fun while Outpacing Previous Events
By: Orange County Communications Department
Over 100 participants registered for this year ’ s Michael ’ s Mile Color Powder Fun Run, which is organized by Orange County Parks & Recreation and the Orange Healthy Community Action Team (HCAT). The event is designed to raise funds for the Michael ’ s Gift Youth Activities Scholarship program, which helps offset the cost of youth extracurricular activities for families in need. This scholarship program was founded in remembrance of Michael Ridgeway, a young Orange County student who tragically passed away at age six (6). His giving spirit and caring attitude towards others shines through in the assistance provided by this program.
The run traditionally begins with a “ color powder cloud. ”
Michael ’ s Mile itself exemplifies resiliency. First offered in 2014, it has come and gone over the years, undergoing several restructures along the way. Initially a timed, track meet - style competition for elementary - aged kids, it is now an untimed, approximately one - mile fun run for all ages. The color powder concept originated from the suggestion of a Locust Grove Middle School Leo Club student. Building upon this idea, their organization partnered with Parks & Recreation to revitalize the event in 2017. Following initial success, attendance once again began to dwindle, and the COVID - 19 outbreak threatened to put an end to the event altogether in the following years. A partnership with the newly formed Orange Healthy Community Action Team, or HCAT, in 2021 provided the necessary energy for the run to rise from the ashes once again, which fittingly reflected the world as a whole following months of social distancing and cancelations. Thanks to the additional promotional efforts spearheaded by the HCAT, staff were able to achieve record - breaking participation, just shy of 100 runners. The 2021 event was Parks & Recreation ’ s first to exceed 30 participants since the pandemic began. This year, the HCAT support provided additional promotional material, including a banner over Main Street in th Town of Orange, and an official “ misting station, ” which helps prepare the t - shirts to receive the color powder.
As in previous years, participants received commemorative T - shirts and sunglasses with multi - colored lenses. The run began with a “ color powder cloud. ” Each participant was provided with a small cup of cornstarch - based color powder to throw at themselves, others, or up in the air. The result is a vibrant, kaleidoscopic burst of color that gets the run off on the right foot. The course leads the runners around the upper section of Booster Park twice, achieving a distance just shy of one (1) mile. Along the route, volunteers douse the runners with more color powder loaded in condiment bottles. The joy on the faces of the record number of participants demonstrated that the run had achieved and exceeded its goals. The organizers are looking forward to bringing it back next year, more colorful than ever!
Event organizers were not spared being covered with color powder. Pictured L to R: R. Zamudio, A. Jacobs
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Orange Healthy Community Action Team Offers Field Trips for Office on Youth School Aged Child Care Students
By: Ashely Jacobs, Program Coordinator, Orange County Office on Youth
On Friday, June 3, 2022, the Orange Healthy Community Action Team (HCAT) helped coordinate field trips to “ Float On Farms ” in partnership with Darnell ’ s Garden Patch and the Orange County Office on Youth ’ s School Aged Child Care Programs. As a result, 52 children were able to participate and spend their day outside exploring, learning, and adventuring on the Robinson River. Three (3) stations were set up for the children to enjoy. Station one (1) consisted of a historical tour and a hike on the property of the Inn at Meander Plantation. Station two (2) paired lunch on newly acquired picnic tables, courtesy of grant funding from the Culpeper Wellness Foundation (see page 22), with a MyPlate lesson illustrating healthy meal options. Station three (3) involved a guided 45 - minute float
At one of the stations, participants learned about proper nutrition through a MyPlate activity.
on the Robinson River following a brief hike across the farmland property.
The Orange HCAT is enthusiastic about every chance to work with area youth and teach them about healthy nutrition and exercise. Programs like these field trips are a wonderful opportunity to further the HCAT ’ s mission to break barriers to healthy childhoods for Orange County children! Other summer activities have included an on - site gardening initiative at each of the four (4) childcare sites and hands - on cooking classes that expand the palates of many young children. For more information regarding the work of the Orange HCAT, please contact Ashley Jacobs, HCAT Coordinator, at (540) 672 - 5484, ext. 1, or via email at ajacobs@orangecountyva.gov. Follow our social media pages to stay abreast of the activities and efforts of the Orange HCAT.
Participants hiked on the Inn at Meander Plantation property.
Facebook: @OrangeHCAT Instagram: @OrangeHCAT
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Playin ’ in the Park Promises Food, Fun, and Fireworks on Friday, July 1!
By: Orange County Communications Department
Since 2013, Parks & Recreation has hosted Orange County ’ s only public fireworks display in celebration of Independence Day. The event is held annually at Booster Park, this year on Friday, July 1, 2022. Planned attractions include a Touch - A - Truck, live music, and several food trucks. This is truly a community event, and the fireworks are made possible by a long list of local sponsors and supporters (see page 17 for a list). Some of these supporters include the groups participating in the Touch - A - Truck, which was introduced to the event in 2016. An
Touch - A - Truck is always a big attraction at Playin ’ in the Park.
event within the larger event, the Touch - A - Truck is a great opportunity for children to learn more about some of the interesting vehicles they regularly see working around the community. Firetrucks, ambulances, road maintenance trucks, and police cruisers are regular features at this portion of the event. Those attending are able to inspect these vehicles up close, and ask questions about their operation directly to those who use them everyday. Remember, its best to arrive early to enjoy Touch - A - Truck, this attraction is scheduled to close at 8:00 p.m., and sometimes vehicles are required to leave early to perform their important jobs. At the time of this publication, scheduled Touch - A - Truck agencies include: Orange Volunteer Fire Company, Orange County Fire & EMS, and the Virginia Department of Transportation. Organizers want to remind those interested in attending to arrive early. Gates will open at 6:00 p.m. Fireworks will take place at dark (usually around 9:30 p.m., dependent on weather conditions) but parking at Booster Park can become limited long before that time arrives. With that in mind, the public is encouraged to make an evening of it, and bring lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics. Grassland Bluegrass Band will provide live entertainment prior to the fireworks. Food vendors are planned to include Buffalo Wild Wings, B - Radd & Honey, R U Freak ’ n Hungry, Barbara ’ s Soul Food, and Kona Ice. Remember, alcohol is not permitted at Booster Park, and pets must be on - leash at all times. There is no admission fee for this event, but freewill donations will be accepted by the Orange County High School Football Team while they provide parking services. Come enjoy this family - friendly event!
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Triad Hosts Second “ Thrive Beyond 55” Conference at Lake of the Woods Church
By: Orange County Communications Department
Orange County Triad offers a variety of services to our senior residents designed to help keep them safe, informed, and connected with local law enforcement. Supported by a dedicated group of volunteers, they offer important life - saving programs such as Guardian Alert pendants, Project Lifesaver transmitters, emergency identification wristbands, and the File of Life first responder information kits, year - round. Going further, Triad offers educational conferences designed specifically for those 55 and older. The first was held on September 21, 2021, at the Gordonsville Fire House, and the second was recently held on May 10 at Lake of the Woods Church.
Volunteers greeted attendees with friendly faces at check in. Pictured L to R: B. Consention, M.J. Ewing
The event drew a strong turnout. After being greeted by friendly volunteer faces at the entrance, attendees next entered an extensive exhibit hall featuring more than a dozen vendor booths offering senior - focused services, such as Smart911 registration, adult protective services, and more! This hallway was packed during the times between conference speakers, as residents learned about the variety of services available to them, mingled with staff and volunteers, and discussed issues affecting older adults with local officials in attendance, such as Sheriff Mark Amos, Supervisor James P. Crozier, and Supervisor Lee H. Frame.
Sheriff Amos speaks with Supervisor Crozier at the “ Thrive Beyond 55” Conference.
Captain Jason Smith of the Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office provided opening remarks, leading - off the conference ’ s group of informative speakers. The list included H. Van Smith of Smith|Strong PLC, who discussed estate planning, and an FBI Special Agent who provided insight into common scams targeting seniors, with advice regarding how to avoid becoming a victim. Following a lunch provided for all participants, a second group of speakers rounded out the event. Triad Coordinator, Deputy Ron Kesner, took the opportunity to explain Traid ’ s role and mission to positively connect seniors with law enforcement resources. The final speaker was Randall Clouse, representing the Office of the Attorney General, who highlighted the Attorney General ’ s efforts to protect older Virginians. Lunch was provided for all attendees. Loretta Hernandez, a Triad volunteer and a primary event organizer, was most proud of “ the relationships that are being built between citizens and our volunteers [at the] Thrive Beyond 55 conferences. ” Triad Coordinator, Deputy Ron Kesner, encourages interested residents to reach out to him regarding Triad programs, services, and volunteer opportunities. He can be reached at (540) 672 - 1536, or rkesner@orangecountyva.gov.
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Culpeper Wellness Foundation Awards $4,200 Grant to Office on Youth to Support HCAT Programs
By: Orange County Communications Department
Culpeper Wellness Foundation serves Orange, Madison, and Culpeper counties. It provides health and fitness programming and services, ensures the availability of high - quality medical care for low - income, uninsured adults, and works to provide mission - related local grants. The Foundation holds a unique role in the community as a provider of services, a partner and collaborator with donors, public and private agencies, and as a grant maker. To help support Orange Healthy Community Action Team (HCAT) programming, the Orange County Office on Youth submitted a grant
Charles and Vicki Horn unveil the sign they generously made and donated at the garden dedication ceremony on October 24, 2021.
proposal to the Culpeper Wellness Foundation in April 2022, and was awarded a $4,200 Healthy Living Grant the following month. This grant will enhance some existing programs of the HCAT, by supporting the
Mustard Seed Garden at OBC, expanding fresh offerings at the Love Outreach Food Pantry, and creating outdoor educational opportunities related to food origination, preparation, and nutrition. The Mustard Seed Garden is located at the Orange Baptist Church ’ s property off of Route 15 leaving the Town of Orange. At this garden, volunteers grow fresh produce, which is then donated to the Love Outreach Food Pantry. The HCAT worked to create this partnership with the intent of closing a nutrition gap. Due to seasonal availability, costs, and logistical concerns, it is often difficult for food pantries to regularly provide fresh produce. Funding from the grant will help support irrigation onsite at the garden, which will allow even more fruits and vegetables to be distributed to those in need.
Zach Darnell discusses growing produce during an Office on Youth Child Care field trip.
With that in mind, another arm of the proposal focused on incorporating the creation of new vegetable displays in renovations underway at the Love Outreach Food Pantry. The HCAT already works to coordinate preparation and recipe suggestions with the fresh produce being provided, which helps remove obstacles that might prevent a recipient from using the fresh items. Finally, the grant will support new educational programming regarding food origins and nutrition. In partnership with Darnell ’ s Garden Patch, the HCAT currently provides outdoor field trips for the Office on Youth school aged child care students, and the grant will facilitate expanding those offerings. Those interested in HCAT programming should contact Ashley Jacobs at (540) 672 - 5484 or ajacobs@orangecountyva.gov. The Love Outreach Food Pantry is located at 252 Blue Ridge Drive, Orange. It is open on Wednesdays from 9:00 a.m. to noon, and the third Monday of the month from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Love Outreach Food Pantry can be reached by calling (540) 223 - 6674.
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Economic Development Will Select Three Local Home Businesses to Showcase at Montpelier Hunt Races
By: Orange County Communications Department
Orange County Economic Development and Tourism's Locally Made Market offers fantastic exposure for local businesses at one (1) of Orange County ’ s most prominent annual events, the Montpelier Hunt Races! Economic Development Director, Rose Deal, noted “ Last year ’ s vendors were extremely pleased with
the exposure that the Vendor Village provided them. ” To build on that success and help encourage local entrepreneurship, the Office of Economic Development and Tourism is again offering the chance for local home businesses to jockey for a position at their second annual Locally Made Market. Three (3) businesses will be selected to receive a six (6) foot table to showcase their offerings at the event, as well as a vendor parking pass and three (3) general admission tickets to the Montpelier Hunt Races. The 87th running of the races will be held on Saturday, November 5, 2022. To qualify for selection, entrants must be a registered home - based business situated within Orange County, current on all business and/or personal property taxes. Interested businesses must operate within one (1) of the following market segments: art, clothing, craft, jewelry, consumer products, or food and beverage. Please note that food carts and food trucks are not eligible within these categories, nor are timeshare or direct seller businesses (such as Tupperware, Mary Kay, Beauty Counter, etc.). The application process will require the submission of a brief presentation (Word or PowerPoint format) about the business, as well as completion of the application document. Completed applications should be submitted via email to rdeal@orangecountyva.gov, or mail to Orange County Economic Development, P.O. Box 111, Orange, VA 22960. Packets must be received by close of business on Friday, July 29, 2022. Businesses with questions, or that require assistance completing their applications, are encouraged to call the Office of Economic Development and Tourism at (540) 672 - 1238. Business will be notified regarding their selection status on or about Monday, August 8, 2022.
Last year ’ s shared vendor tent at the Locally Made Market offered excellent exposure for some of our local home businesses.
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Good Times Ahead! Mark Your Calendar for these Upcoming Community Events!
Juneteenth Celebration : Sunday, June 19, 2022
Virtual and live events will be held throughout the month. On June 19, the Town of Orange will be filled with music, art, and activities. Don ’ t miss the dedication of the African American Historical Commemorative Park at 12:30 p.m.!
For additional details, visit: www.ocaahsjuneteenth.org
Orange County Fair: Wednesday - Saturday, June 22 - 25, 2022
The Orange County Fair is an annual fair held in Orange County, Virginia. It maintains a rural theme, with 4 - H exhibits, livestock, traditional stage shows, truck and tractor pulls, and fun for the whole family!
For additional details, visit: www.orangecountyfairva.com
Playin ’ in the Park: Friday, July 1, 2022
Enjoy this free celebration of our independence at Booster Park! Featuring live music, a Touch - A - Truck, food vendors, and fireworks, this event is great for the whole family. Admission is free, but freewill donations are accepted for parking.
For additional details, visit: www.orangecountyva.gov/parksandrecreation
Orange Street Festival, Saturday, September 10, 2022
The Street Festival is an annual community event, with over 200 artisan, craft and commercial vendors, a variety of food and beverage vendors, live music, a kid ’ s zone, and beer/wine garden.
For additional details, visit: www.orangevachamber.com
Gordonsville Fried Chicken Festival, Saturday, October 1, 2022
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, local women served platters of fried chicken to train passengers stopping in town, receiving national recognition for the delicacy. Gordonsville celebrates this heritage during this annual festival.
For additional details, visit: www.townofgordonsville.org
Main Street Music & More!
www.mainstreeteventsgordonsville.com
www.loveorangevirginia.org
Learn more about these and other events at: www.visitorangevirginia.com
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June is National Dairy Month
By: Courtney Wesner, Associate Extension Agent, Virginia Cooperative Extension
Within Cooperative Extension, we strive to empower individuals and communities to solve complex issues and challenges through scientific, research - based education. Our daily jobs are to empower farmers, ranchers, and community members to meet the day - to - day challenges through adapting to new technology, improving nutrition and food safety, encouraging positive youth development, preparing for response to emergencies, and protecting our natural environment, to name a few. The role of Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent is one piece of a bigger system aimed at supporting the farming community. Agriculture in Orange County is extremely diverse and that diversity includes several commercial dairy operations that are in
operation. A hat - tip is deserved by those individuals able to master and continue dairy production during the current times of higher - than - ever input costs. In the author ’ s opinion, in terms of the necessary farming knowledge base needed to be successful, dairy farmers tend to lead the way. Dairy men and women must be master nutritionists, agronomists, animal health providers, geneticists, reproductive technologists, and the list continues. The amount of knowledge and breadth of scientific understanding that goes into the production of each milk product purchased at the store is amazing. Below are just a few science - related facts about the dairy industry. The progressiveness displayed by the industry, always rooted in science, is truly remarkable. • 99% of milk within the domestic milk supply is produced by farms that participate in the National Dairy Farmers Assuring Responsible Management (FARM) Care program. This program was the first livestock animal care program to become internationally certified for meeting the ISO Animal Welfare Management standard. It focuses on socially responsible and exceptional care of animals. • In the previous decade, North America (with the U.S. being the primary producer) was the only region in the world to both increase milk production and reduce emissions. U.S. dairy production accounts for 2% of greenhouse gas emissions, 5% of water use, and less than 4% of U.S. farmland. • The dairy industry has been utilizing artificial insemination to select superior sires to increase production and efficiency for over 80 years. Currently, many producers are also utilizing genomics, ovum pick - up, and in - vitro fertilization to continue to advance genetic progress and production efficiency. • U.S. dairy farms are producing, on average, a minimum of three times more milk today as compared to 1960 while utilizing about half of the number of cows. This dramatically increased production efficiency, on a per cow basis, has significantly reduced the total resources needed by the dairy industry. When enjoying a dairy product or a recipe that utilizes dairy (like that on page 30), please take a moment to recognize the remarkably passionate and knowledgeable farmer whose work produced that product.
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Victim / Witness Program Assistant Wellness Program Manager
Full - time Opportunities
Admin Assistant - Circuit Court Clerk ’ s Office Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Deputy Sheriff – Patrol Deputy Sheriff - School Resource Officer Director of Development Services Emergency Communications Officer Firefighter / Medic GIS Technician Grounds Maintenance Technician I Library Circulation Supv. - Internal Apps Only Paralegal / Legal Assistant Recreation Programmer
Part - time Opportunities
Child Care Lead Teacher – LES Child Care Substitute Teacher – LES / LGPS Child Care Teacher – LGPS Collection Site Attendant Library Aide – Orange Library Support Staff Technician - Office on Youth
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Orange County Public Schools Calendar 2022 - 2023
Link to Calendar
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Let your voice be heard... Orange County Public Hearings
Board of Supervisors
Planning Commission
None scheduled at the time of publication.
• Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.
New hearings may be scheduled later.
• Tuesday, July 12, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.
Visit the Agenda Center for the most updated information.
Unless otherwise noted, meetings will be held at:
Board of Supervisors ’ Meeting Room Orange County Public Safety Building 11282 Government Center Drive, Orange
This information is for reference only. Specific information about public 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.
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Citizens Ask...
By Michelle Williams
Q: Who do I need to speak to if I want to put a shed on my property? A: Building and Development Services may assist you with setback requirements. They may also assist you with determining if a building or zoning permit are necessary. Q: Where can I get a copy of my plat? A: To obtain a copy of your plat, contact the Orange County Circuit Court Clerk ’ s office at (540) 672 - 6162. You may also visit their office, located on the third floor at 110 N. Madison Road, Orange, Virginia.
Peggy Helmick Senior Communication Officer and Certified Training Officer
Get to know Orange County staff... The Personnel File:
When an emergency arises, residents of Orange County can rest assured dedicated Emergency Communications staff are on duty to provide assistance. Peggy Helmick is one of our most experienced Communications Officers, and she has literally answered the call countless times in service to those in need. In fact, August will mark her 22nd year with the County. Over those years, she has seen 9 - 1 - 1 service in Orange County transform and improve many times, including the consolidation with Sheriff ’ s Office dispatch and the adoption of Smart911. Peggy is an ambassador for Emergency Communications, and often attends local events to help promote Smart911, explaining the many benefits of the program, and how it can help save lives. She enjoys explaining how 9 - 1 - 1 works, and helping residents understand the purpose behind the many questions that are asked. Getting the right information from the caller helps ensure the best response.
No stranger to saving lives herself, Peggy recalls one (1) of her favorite work - related memories as a time when a couple stopped by the office to personally thank her for providing CPR instructions which helped save the husband ’ s life. But, that ’ s not all. In another amazing story, she provided direction and assistance to a mother delivering a baby while EMS was enroute! When not busy serving the community and saving lives, Peggy enjoys spending time with her two (2) Great Danes, going for hikes, and floating rivers. Our community is lucky to have her on the other end of the line when help is needed. Thank you Peggy!
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Orange County Communications Department 112 W. Main Street P.O. Box 111 Orange, VA 22960
POSTAL CUSTOMER
Meet Lia
Are you seeking a companion who ’ s friendly, affectionate, playful, and loves kisses? Then look no “ fur ” ther! Lia is a sweet 3 year old cat. She came to us as a owner surrender. Originally, Lia had been a stray that showed up at a citizen ’ s home. She is very affectionate and has lived with cats of various ages, younger children, and dogs. Lia is spayed, microchipped, and has been made current on all vaccines. She has been tested for FIV/FLV.
Lia ’ s full bio is available on Petfinder.
If interested, please go to the Orange County website, fill out the preadoption application, and email it to the Director at gjenkins@orangecountyva.gov.
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
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