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
4 - H Camp Registration Opens Page 23 Library Board Eliminates Daily Fines Page 13 Winter Disc Golf Tournament Recap Page 4 Don ’ t Guess, Soil Test Page 5 New Welcome Signs Coming to Eight County Entrance Points Page 36
2022 WINNER
FEBRUARY 2023
Page | February, 2023
Team Orange,
For those who are newer to our organization, and for citizen readers who may be less familiar with how local government works, Virginia ’ s counties, cities and towns operate on a financial calendar that runs from July 1st of a year through June 30th of the following year. This is our “ fiscal year, ” and we plan for our revenues and expenditures within that timeframe. The budget process begins in the fall when department heads are provided instructions and forms (mostly online these days) to submit their plans for the following year. While the Code of Virginia requires the budget to be adopted by June 30th, in reality we target the end of April so that real estate property tax bills can be mailed in time for the June 5 th due date, and the school budget can be set by mid - May to allow teacher contracts to be issued for the following school year. To meet the late April deadline for adoption of the budget by the Board of Supervisors, I work with Deputy County Administrator Glenda Bradley to review all the relevant information during a compressed timeframe during January and February to sort through all the requests and examine the spending of the current fiscal year. This also includes forecasting revenues and anticipating budget actions to be taken by the Commonwealth. We are then able to help advise the Board ’ s Budget Guidance Committee as we prepare a recommended draft for consideration by the Board of Supervisors. After reading all the budget information, what have I learned? That we do a LOT of different things to make Orange County a great place to be! Thanks for what you do Team Orange!
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Page | February, 2023 Page 1 | February, 2023
Cultural Initiative Update
By: Orange County Communications
R. Mark Johnson Chairman District One Supervisor organization. Implementation Team leaders have been assigned to each of the five (5) priority initiatives and over the next 24 - 36 months, these teams will be reaching out to County employees to solicit feedback and seek participation. Your input will be extremely valuable in continuing to advance the County ’ s cultural initiative efforts, and in helping make Orange County a great place to work! To learn more about who your Implementation Team leaders are, please reference the graphic on the following page. If you would like to join any of the five (5) Implementation Teams, please reach out to any of the team leaders directly, or Implementation Coordinator, Michelle Williams at mwilliams@orangecontyva.gov. If you ’ ve been following along for the past year or so, you probably noticed some exciting things are happing through our Cultural Initiative program. Through a series of focus groups, the Cultural Initiative Team and Senior Leadership Team finalized the organization ’ s mission and vision statements and identified the organization ’ s values and overall Strategic Initiatives. In addition to the organization ’ s Strategic Initiatives, five (5) priority initiatives were identified by the focus groups. Those five (5) priority initiatives are Employee Growth & Development, Collaboration, Customer Service, Communication, and Positive Work Environment. These priority initiatives will assist the organization in better defining the previously identified values and with implementing them across the
Do you have team members that exemplify the J.U.I.C.E. mentality and are going above and beyond? Remember you can nominate them! Submissions are open and we will be doing a quarterly drawing to
choose a winner for that quarter. They will receive a fun jackpot prize! Visit the JUICE Employee Recognition Form, or simply use the QR code to recognize another employee.
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Winter Disc Golf Tournament Recap By: Joe Falin, Program and Facilities Supervisor, Parks and Recreation
On Saturday, January 21, 2023, Orange County Parks & Recreation hosted the annual Winter One - disc - eraland Disc Golf Tournament. This year ’ s tournament was our most participated disc golf activity ever with 37 intrants filling out six (6) flights, with the top three (3) finishers in each flight receiving awards. Each participant in the tournament received a commemorative disc, golf towel, and mini disc. The top three (3) finishers in each of the six (6) flights received gift cards to tournament sponsor, Iron Pipe Alewerks.
The weather was as good as anyone could hope for in the middle of January, with it being slightly cloudy and temperatures in the mid 40’ s. For the Winter One - disc - erland Disc Golf Tournament, participants are only allowed to use the provided commemorative disc during their round. Information on the make and model of the commemorative disc was not provided to the participants prior to disc distribution, until 40 minutes before the tournament began. For this year ’ s tournament, the disc was manufactured by our other tournament sponsor, Prodigy Discs. The make of the disc was a Custom ACE Line M Model S Midrange Disc. Using a midrange disc allowed for players to be comfortable using the disc in most situations. When it was all said and done, the winner of the 1st Flight and the overall winner of the tournament was Thomas Forrester with a score of 47 ( - 8). In second place was Caleb Roberts with a 49 ( - 6), and in third place was Ray Starks with a score of 50 ( - 5). Ray Starks was not the only participant with a score of 50 ( - 5), as two (2) others, Dwayne Higdon and Darren Jones, matched his score. To determine who would take home the award for third place, a closest to the pin throw - off was conducted, with Ray Starks coming out on top. There was a total of six (6) closest to pin throw - offs conducted, with three (3) of them deciding the first, second and third place seeding a single flight.
Orange County Parks & Recreation ’ s next disc golf related activity will be the Spring Fling tournament held on Saturday, April 15, 2023, where each participant will have the option to purchase a plastic egg containing a mystery modifier for their second round. For more information about OCPR programs and activities, please visit us online or give us a call at (540) 672 - 5435.
Page 4 | February, 2023
Gingerbread House Contest Results By: Joe Falin, Program and Facilities Supervisor, Parks and Recreation Don ’ t Guess, Soil Test By: Kaci Daniel, Extension Agent, 4 - H Youth Development When the first signs of spring arrive, many Orange residents will be raring to go with yard work and gardening. This often includes applications of lime and fertilizer, but before you go that route, it ’ s best to take a soil test to know the nutrient contents of your soil. Taking a soil test is easy and inexpensive, and soil test kits are available from any Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) location. We are in the Sedwick Building, located at 146 N. Madison Road, Suite 102, Orange, Virginia. Using a small trowel, dig four (4) inches into the soil and place that scoop of soil in a bucket or other mixing container. Repeat three (3) to five (5) times around your lawn or garden, adding to the bucket each time. Mix the soil well to ensure a random sample, and then fill a VCE soil sample box with your soil. Label the sample with your name and an identifier like front, back, yard, garden, or whatever makes sense to you. Complete the accompanying VCE soil test form, and mail the box of soil and completed form with a check for $10 per sample to the soils lab at Virginia Tech. You only need separate soil tests where your fertilizer application might change. One (1) sample is sufficient for most home lawns in this area; you may wish to send a second sample for a vegetable garden or specific flowers and shrubs. The routine soil test measures soil pH, Phosphorus, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Manganese, Copper, Iron, Boron, and estimated Cation Exchange Capacity.
Soil test results are usually available withing seven (7) to fourteen (14) days, and the lab gets much busier as springtime weather approaches. Results can be mailed or e - mailed to you and include directions for how much fertilizer and or lime to apply based on what you intend to grow. Extension staff can also access those results and help you to interpret them and devise a plan for increasing the overall quality of soil. While fall is generally the best time to amend soils, spring seems to be when most citizens are thinking about the soil beneath their lawns and gardens. Don ’ t waste time, money, or send valuable nutrients as runoff into our waterways - it ’ s always best to do a soil test! To view VCE publications about a variety of topics, visit https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/, or contact the Orange County Extension Office at (540) 672 - 1361.
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Hybrid Plan VRS Members See Auto - Increase in Voluntary Contributions in January
By: Orange County Communications Department
This is a reminder that auto escalation for VRS Hybrid employees took effect on the January 6, 2023, pay date. If you were not already contributing the maximum voluntary contribution of 4%, your voluntary VRS contribution automatically increased by 0.5% effective on the January 6, 2023, pay date. This occurs once every three (3) years until you reach the maximum voluntary contribution of 4%. Please see the below graphic for more details. The higher your voluntary contribution, the more you can save on a pre - tax basis and take advantage of both compound earnings and employer matching funds. To visualize how this increase will impact your paycheck, check out the Hybrid Member Paycheck Calculator. If you have any questions about the auto - increase for VRS Hybrid employees, please call Participant Services at VRS - DC - PLAN1 (877 - 327 - 5261), and select option 1 or log in to Account Access at varetire.org/hybrid.
Page 7 | February, 2023
Orange County Is Open For Business By: Orange County Economic Development
Local businesses are the heart of Orange County, and your support makes a difference! Visit www.buyorangeva.com and start planning your shopping, dining, and recreational activities! Are you a local business owner? Visit www.buyorangeva.com to create a FREE profile. Once subscribed, businesses can showcase their offerings by listing services offered, menu items, hours of operation, website, social media links, promotions, photo galleries, and more. For more information, please contact the Office of Economic Development at (540) 672 - 1238.
Employee Mileage Rate Increase
By: Orange County Communications Department
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) increased the mileage rate beginning January 1, 2023, to 65.5 cents per mile. Per the County of Orange Travel Policy 3.8, the mileage reimbursement rate will change based on the IRS rate. Please use the following rates for reimbursement:
• Mileage prior to January 1, 2023 = 62.5 cents per mile
• Mileage January 1, 2023 and after = 65.5 cents per mile If you did not receive the updated mileage form, please contact to Sara Keeler, Director of Finance, at skeeler@orangecountyva.gov.
Page 8 | February, 2023
By: Orange County Information Technology Department
One of the most common things when using technology, is the use of passwords to verify one ’ s account or identity. Over the years we ’ ve all accumulated numerous online account and password combinations.
Passwords should be changed regularly and each account should have a different password.
Consider changing passwords to longer passphrases. Passphrases are a combination of words rather than using complex combinations of letters, numbers, and symbols. Passphrases are often longer than passwords and easier to remember.
Multi - Factor authentication (MFA) is also recommended. MFA adds a layer of security by requiring a code from either an app or SMS message to login.
Now that you ’ ve changed all your accounts to passphrases and turned on MFA, how do you keep track of all the changes? There are several password managers to assist with protecting the passwords with encryption. Password managers allow you to only remember a “ master password ” to unlock the manager, and often provide the option to create passwords for you.
If you have any questions, please contact the Orange County Helpdesk at helpdesk@orangecountyva.gov
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February Employee Anniversary Report Thank you for your dedication to Orange County and it ’ s citizens. Below you will find a list of employees who celebrate an employment anniversary in February. Each employee is listed with their years of service and what department they are housed in.
23 years, Gail Lloyd, Office on Youth
18 years, Brad Darnell, Sheriff ’ s Office
18 years, Robert Kelley, Sheriff ’ s Office
16 years, Nathan Mort, Fire & EMS
11 years, Randy Clatterbuck, Public Works
8 years, Michael Broyles, Sheriff ’ s Office
7 years, Martin Williams, Public Works
7 years, Bernice Washington, Social Services
5 years, Joshua Sparks, Sheriff ’ s Office
5 years, Louis Gipson, Public Works
5 years, Kerri Skinner, Social Services
5 years, Anna Zummo, Circuit Court
3 years, Vernitha Fearon, Social Services
3 years, Valencia Bowman, Sheriff ’ s Office
2 years, Raymond Wareham, Pubic Works
2 years, Nicholas Brown, Fire & EMS
2 years, Jessica Caudill, Fire & EMS
2 years, Walker Merryman, Information Technology
2 years, Christian Amos, Sheriff ’ s Office
2 years, Jenny Carpenter, Human Resources
1 year, Lana Grant, Library
1 year, Regan McKay, Economic Development
1 year, Robert Fisher, Emergency Communications Center
1 year, Karen Williams, Office on Youth
1 year, Dale Rose, Public Works
Page 11 | February, 2023
In January, Communications Training Officer (CTO) Abbe Smithson completed her General Instructor Certification. Smithson is currently a CTO at the Orange County Emergency Communications Center. Emergency Communications Center Employees Complete Certifications By: Orange County Communications Department
The General Instructor certification is a state level certification created by the Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). This course had 40 hours of instruction and was taught at the Rappahannock Regional Criminal Justice Academy in Fredericksburg, Virginia. With this certification, the recipient can teach state - approved courses at the Criminal Justice Academy and within Orange County. Having a cadre of instructors allows Orange County to teach courses in - house. Orange is proud to have five (5) full time and one (1) part time staff as general instructors.
Jeremy Brown was also certified as a General Instructor. Orange County has two (2) General Instructor Instructors, which means they can teach General Instructor students. In order to teach the General Instructor course, instructors must go through the process and be selected, not everyone is able to teach the course because there are many components and parts to teach. Since Orange County has two (2) on staff, they can assist with teaching the course. Due to the numerous parts and requirements in the General Instructor course, it is one of the few classes that can not be taught at your agency. DCJS is looking to make required continuing education mandatory for dispatchers every year and by having general instructors on staff, the Orange County Emergency Communications Center will be able to provide quality training for all staff members so they do not have to go to the academy for this training. Pictured Left to Right: Training Coordinator Holly Williams, CTO Abbe Smithson, and Supervisor Jeremy Brown
Congratulations to CTO Abbe Smithson and Supervisor Jeremy Brown!
For more information about the Emergency Communications Center, contact Chris Cord, Emergency Communications Center Director, at ccord@orangecountyva.gov.
Page 12 | February, 2023
Orange County Library Board of Trustees Eliminates Daily Late Fines
The Orange County Library Board of Trustees voted to eliminate daily late fines for overdue materials and the clearing of all existing overdue fines from library accounts effective January 1, 2023.
What Does It Mean for Library Cardholders?
• No daily late fines charged on overdue items (except Wi - Fi hotspots)
• Existing late fines will be cleared from all library accounts
• Wi - Fi hotspots will still be subject to a late fine of $1.00 per day
• Existing charges for lost and damaged materials will remain on accounts
An overdue book or media item should be returned within a reasonable amount of time. Orange County Public Library items kept longer than 30 days past the due date will block a customer ’ s account from additional check outs. The library will continue to charge a lost fee for items which have not been returned by 60 days past their due date.
For more information, contact Katie Hill, Library Director, at
(540) 672 - 3811 or at khill@orangecountyva.gov.
Page 13 | February, 2023
County Cup Kicks Off With Game of SIMON
By: Joe Falin, Program and Facilities Supervisor, Parks and Recreation
Beginning 2023, Orange County Parks & Recreation began hosting their inaugural County Cup competition. The competition features any County department wanting to participate in friendly, approachable games over the course of the year, with one (1) event happening every month. The top ten (10 ) finishers from each event will earn points for their department, which will determine the overall 2023 County Cup Champion. The first event, a SIMON competition, was not without its storylines. For this event, fifteen (15) County departments nominated two (2) of their staff to play three (3) rounds of the game SIMON. At the end of three (3) rounds, the individual participant ’ s round scores were added together to determine their standing. Points were award to a player ’ s department if the player finished in the top 10 for the event, with the first - place finisher receiving ten (10) points and the tenth - place finisher receiving one (1) point.
When it was all said and done, consistency proved to be the most important factor to success with the Finance Department ’ s participants, Jenna Wedding and Sara Keeler, finishing tied for first - place with each of them having a total score of 32. Both Sara and Jenna could not crack the top four (4) for the single round high score, but both were very consistent for all three (3) rounds. Jenna ’ s single round scores of 10, 11, and 11, and Sara ’ s scores of 9, 12, 11, were in the top 25 of all 90 rounds played during the event. Some other outstanding performances came from IT ’ s Jim Whipp, and the Library ’ s Logan Pritchard, when each of them recorded a single round score of 14, the highest single round score in the competition. Logan was also the only participant to have two (2) single round scores in the top ten, with scores of 14 and 12. Round two (2) of the County Cup took place February 6 - 13, 2023, and was a guessing game. Every County employee was invited to participate to see who could get the closest guess to the actual amount of candy hearts in a jar. Please check out the next issue of the Orange County Insight for the results of Round two (2) and the updated standings of the competition. If you have any questions about the competition, please give us a call at (540) 672 - 5435 or send an email to OCPR@orangecountyva.gov.
Page 14 | February, 2023
By: Culpeper Soil and Water Conservation District
Residents of Orange County that live in either the Upper York River watershed or Blue Run watershed continue to be eligible for reimbursement of 50 to 80 percent of the expense of pumping and inspecting, repairing or replacing residential septic systems. The Upper York watershed is nearly all of
Orange County which is both south of Route 20 and east of US Route 15, except for very small areas along the County border with Spotsylvania and Louisa Counties. The Blue Run watershed is from the Albemarle County border just south of Barboursville and runs to the Rapidan River. All properties draining here are eligible. The Culpeper Soil and Water Conservation District grants program continues its funding to help reduce bacteria pollution in local streams. The series of grants is focused on reducing any existing or potential impacts on local ground and surface water quality. E. coli bacteria in some local streams has long been identified as being higher than expected by state water quality standards, although other
pollutants can also be involved, particularly nutrients. An additional benefit to the property owner is the assurance that their system is up to standards and functioning properly. It is a win - win for both water quality and property value. The program is entirely voluntary. All residential properties in the watershed are eligible for 50% cost share regardless of income. Program participants are eligible for one of several different payments depending on the actual needs of their system. Reimbursement payments are typically 50 percent although can go as high as 80 percent for low - income status individuals. Maximum payments to property owners at the 50% cost share are: $200 for a pump out, $2,000 maximum towards a pump out with inspection, $2,500 maximum towards a repair, $4,000 maximum towards a conventional system or $6,000 if a pump is required to move the liquids to the drain field; and $12,000 maximum toward an alternative engineered system. Pump outs and inspections are encouraged for everyone; such preventative maintenance extends the life of a system and prevents higher costs later on if systems fail. If further repairs are indicated by the inspection, the owner is still eligible for the additional repair payments. Applications are required and need to be approved prior to the work being done or funding can be declined. Free assistance with initial assessments of individual system needs is available from the District. Reimbursement payments are made promptly once the work has been completed. The program is entirely voluntary and assistance from the District is free of charge. Further information on the program is available from the District at (540) 825 - 8591 or (540) 948 - 7531. Funding for these projects has been secured by the Culpeper Soil and Water Conservation District from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, Commonwealth of Virginia and the US Environmental Protection Agency.
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MUNIS Upgrade By: Josh Crawford, Business System Analyst
The upgrade to our MUNIS system has been installed on our TEST environment. Over the next few months, multiple users will have the opportunity to test out the new features. While this process will introduce some changes, overall the County will be able to take advantage of many benefits: • Improved features, including customized dash- boards and reporting features
• Human Resources Module additions
...and much more!
•
• Updated support through Tyler Client Support
Workflow and role improvements
•
The testing process is designed to ensure the daily processes we depend on are functioning correctly. This testing process takes around three (3) months. Once items are verified, the upgrade to the LIVE and TRAIN environments can be done. Keep an eye out for more information on training and access to TEST coming soon. For more information on the MUNIS system upgrade, contact Josh Crawford, Business System Analyst, at jcrawford@orangecountyva.gov.
Orange County Fire and EMS Staff Attend Career Fair at OCHS By: Orange County Communications Department
On January 19, 2023, staff from Orange County Fire and EMS (COFEMS) attended the career fair at Orange County High School. At this event, staff educated students on how Fire and EMS operates while encouraging attendance of the Firefighter I and EMT program. The Firefighter I and EMT program is a partnership Orange County Fire and EMS is proud to have with Orange County Public Schools. Upon completion, students are eligible to sit for the Virginia Firefighter and Pro Board certification. After successfully completing coursework and certifications, students are eligible to volunteer with their local fire department to obtain their Firefighter II certification. Students can also enroll in the Emergency Medical Technician course offered through the partnership. Students who have completed all necessary certifications are eligible to become full time COFEMS employees.
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Orange County Announces New Veterinary Technician
By: Orange County Communications Department
Last month, Orange County welcomed Ada Vanderhoof as the new Veterinary Technician for the Orange County Animal Shelter. Ms. Vanderhoof grew up in Stafford County but now calls Orange County home. Ms. Vanderhoof has worked with animals since 2018, working at the Fredericksburg SPCA and Woodside Equine Clinic. She is currently pursuing her License in Veterinary Technology (LVT), and hopes to complete it in 2024. She notes her favorite part of the job is “ being able to work with all the amazing animals and my coworkers. ” Ms. Vanderhoof is passionate about the Orange County Animal Shelter and the animals she cares for. She stated, “ No other shelter compares to the Orange
County Animal Shelter. Our shelter is really a top of line shelter. ” Welcome Ada!
To get involved with the Animal Shelter or to learn more about the Animal Shelter ’ s initiatives, please visit them online and follow them on Facebook.
Page 20 | February, 2023
Tax Relief Applications for the Elderly and Handicapped Applications Available
By: Orange County Communications Department
Tax Relief applications for the Elderly and Handicapped deadline is Wednesday, March 1, 2023. The Orange County Commissioner of the Revenue ’ s Office offers in office assistance to anyone that would like to apply. Applications for the Tax Relief for the Elderly must be 65 years or older, on December 31st of the year immediately proceeding the taxable year. Handicapped applicants under 65 must attach affidavit by two (2) medical doctors who are either licensed to practice medicine in the Commonwealth or are military officers on active duty who practice medicine with the United States Armed Forces, to the effect that the person(s) are permanently and totally disabled as defined in Section 58.13127; however, a certification pursuant to 42 U.S.C 423 (d) by the Social Security Administration so long as the person(s) remains eligible for social security benefits shall be deemed to satisfy. A dwelling jointly held by a husband/wife/spouse may qualify if either spouse is over sixty - five (65) or is permanently and totally disabled. Forms are available at the Commissioner of the Revenue ’ s Office upon request and the application deadline is March 1st each year. You must reapply each year to receive the exemption.
Applicants must meet certain qualifications such as:
1. The combined financial net worth, including equitable interests up to the maximum of $120,000 , of the owners of the dwelling and the spouse for which exemption is claimed, and shall exclude the fair market value of the dwelling and the land, not exceeding two (2) acres upon which the dwelling is situated. 2. Total combined household income during the immediately preceding calendar year from all sources of the owner(s) of the dwelling living therein and the occupants living in the dwelling, shall not exceed $50,000 . The first $7,500 of income is excluded on occupants of the dwelling, not including the owner/co - owner/spouse.
3. The dwelling of the property for which exemption is claimed must be occupied as the sole dwelling of the person or persons claiming exemption.
These requirements are set by the Board of Supervisors and are subject to change annually.
To apply, please visit the Orange County Commissioner of the Revenue ’ s Office at 112 W. Main Street, Orange before March 1, 2023.
Page 21 | February, 2023
Atlantic Union Bank Grant Release
Page 22 | February, 2023
4 - H Camp Registration Opens
By: Orange County Extension Office
4 - H camp registration begins March 1 at 7:00 pm. Interested families are invited to check out our website. Camp dates are June 4 - 8, 2023, and campers may be in grades 3 - 8. Camp is five (5) days, four (4) nights, on the grounds of the Northern Virginia 4 - H Educational Center in Front Royal. Classes include archery, arts and crafts, high and low ropes, campfire cooking, outdoor living skills, sports, ceramics, and leathercraft to name a few. Campers stay in dormitories and can request a camp roommate. Meals are offered in the dining hall, and there's a Junior - Olympic size swimming pool that's offered each afternoon. A camp tradition is the game ga - ga, and we assure you people go gaga for ga - ga because they love this dodgeball - like game so much. We have nightly evening programs and a campfire before we go to bed. Orange and Madison counties camp together. Check out our website and mark your calendars for the March 1, 7:00 pm registration opening!
Page 23 | February, 2023
Orange County Fire & EMS Graduates New Class of Firefighter I Graduates By: April Clark, Orange County Fire & EMS
On Wednesday, January 25, 2023, County of Orange Fire & EMS (COFEMS) proudly hosted a graduation ceremony for our new Firefighter I graduates. These graduates consisted of Orange County High School students and employees from COFEMS, Nick Brown – A shift; Porter Preston – A Shift; Patrick Cobb – B Shift; and Charles Waddle – C Shift. Over the last couple of months, these graduates put in numerous hours both inside the classroom as well as on the training ground. Some of our graduates were second and third generational firefighters. We would like to also thank the families and friends of our graduates that have shown amazing support during the last couple of months.
Page 24 | February, 2023
Delinquent Tax Notices By: Orange County Treasurer's Office
The Orange County Treasurer's Office has sent delinquent notices for 2 nd half 2022 Real Estate tax bills and 2022 Personal Property taxes. Any unpaid 2022 Personal Property tax bill that was not paid by Monday, February 6, 2023, was subject to the $25.00 administrative collection fee. All personal property delinquencies have been sent to the state therefore any State refund may be held until taxes are paid in full or removed, if applicable. Disputing what was billed needs to be directed to the Commissioner of the Revenue ’ s Office at (540) 672 - 4441. To avoid further collections, the taxpayer would need to pay taxes in full or make a payment agreement with the Orange County Treasurer ’ s Office for 2022 taxes. Taxes from 2021 and prior will need to be paid with TACS at (804) 454 - 2500. For payment agreement inquiries, call the Treasurer ’ s Office at (540) 672 - 2656.
Serving on Boards, Commissions, and Committees By: Orange County Communications Department Orange County encourages civic engagement as a way of to allowing the voices of all constituents to be heard. To that end, to serve the various needs and interests of the community, Orange County has twenty (20) local and/or regional boards, commissions, and committees on which citizens can serve in various capacities. These groups are designed to meet and address the needs and interests of the local and regional community. Appointments to all boards, commissions, and committees are made by the Orange County Board of Supervisors. Orange County encourages civic engagement to allow the voices of all constituents to be heard. Current boards, commissions, and committee vacancies are published on the County website. To view the vacancies or apply to serve on one of these boards, commissions, or committees, please visit the County website and complete an online application form.
Page 25 | February, 2023
Romance Reads for Valentine ’ s Day
By: Orange County Library Staff
Please enjoy the book recommendations below from the Orange County Public Library for the month of February. If you have any questions, please reach out to the Orange County Main Library at (540) 672 - 3811.
The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
A New York Times Notable Book of 2022! The New York Times Bestseller and Good Morning America Book Club Pick! This book features a heroine who grew up working and living at the family funeral home and who can see and speak to dead people. Florence was teased and ostracized in her small town and fled to New York to escape. She dumps her stable job and risks it all to become a full - time author and is now facing a looming deadline and a new boss and editor. Drawn back home by a family crisis,
Number 1 NEW YORK TIMES GOOD MORNING AMERICA BOOK CLUB PICK • A GOODREADS BESTSELLER •
CHOICE AWARD WINNER and A BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR: The New York Times, Washington Post, NPR, Oprah Daily, Newsweek, GoodReads, Bookpage, Kirkus. A huge hit with a long waiting list, this offbeat romance features a chemist, Elizabeth Zott, who becomes the star of a cooking show when economic necessity forces her to find work outside the science world. Her relationship with her daughter and what the daughter learns about relationships as a result is a key part of the story. Elizabeth ’ s cooking show becomes a huge hit, but its pro - woman
she connects with the spirit of her new editor, Ben, and learns to see love as possible again. Florence is a sympathetic character as she struggles and gets in awkward situations that left me laughing.
message is also subversive as she encourages a viewer to become a heart surgeon and other viewers to embrace non - traditional female roles.
Red, White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
This romance set in the world of global politics was unusual and refreshing. Image if the United States had a female president running for re - election who has a teenage son. Now image that the son has just discovered he is gay through having a crush and then a relationship with the crown prince of the British monarchy. The pressure, secrecy and crushing stakes of having such a relationship were portrayed very effectively and those parts read almost like a thriller. This was paired with tender and romantic love letters between the two men which they use to get to know and woo each other.
The Worst Best Man by Mia Sosa
Named one of the Best Romances of 2020 by EW, Cosmo, OprahMag, Buzzfeed, Insider, and NPR! Carolina “ Lina ” Santos is a wedding plan- ner living with the uncomfortable aftermath of being left at the altar. Lina is forced to work with Max, the best man from her own cancelled wed- ding, to do a career making pitch to his family business. This enemies to lover ’ s romance is sassy, sexy and funny.
The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood Graduate student Olive gets herself twisted in a fake dating relationship with hot professor dam Carlsen, to help a friend move on from a bad breakup. As their relationship builds through lots of banter, Olive finds that her fake dating might not be so fake after all. Olive ’ s insecurities are very relatable and the academic setting feels authentic.
The Bromance Book Club by Lyssa Kay Adams
This book is the first in a series which features a group of baseball players who form a book club that reads romance novels and uses them to solve problems in their real - life relationships. The tone is light and there is a fair amount of humor mixed in. The fact that men are mentoring each other regarding relationship skills and reading romance novels is also a fun twist.
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Page 27 | February, 2023
MPS Breaks Ground By: Orange County Economic Development
On January 18, 2023, representatives from Macmillan Publisher's U.S. distribution center (MPS) along with Martin Horn, the Orange County Board of Supervisors, Orange County Economic Development Authority, and the Orange County Chamber of Commerce, gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate their newest expansion in Orange County. This expansion will add 200,000 square feet to their existing 400,000 square foot distribution facility, located on Route 15 North. Macmillan Publishers, based in New York, NY, is a global trade and higher education publishing company operating in over 70 countries, with imprints in the United States,
Germany, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, and India. Macmillan Publishers is a division of the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group, a large family - owned media company headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. MPS first opened its ’ doors in Orange County in 1997, and then expanded in 2000. The Orange County distribution facility handles all distribution for the United States and Canada, as well as some international customers. See more from the groundbreaking video.
Page 28 | February, 2023
Orange County Announces New Animal Shelter Manager and Volunteer Coordinator
By: Orange County Communications Department
Last month, Orange County welcomed Mrs. Jamie Bates as the new Animal Shelter Manager and Volunteer Coordinator. Mrs. Bates is a long - time Orange County resident. Prior to working for Orange County, Mrs. Bates served in the United States Army Military Police Corps, worked in various law enforcement capacities, and has extensive experience working in the equine and cattle industries. Mrs. Bates also co - owns and co - operates Broken Arrow Livestock Solutions, LLC . She holds a certificate in Equine Management and Equine Sports Massage Therapy and Rehab.
When asked what interested her most about working for Orange County she stated, “ I ’ m excited to work in my home community and I love being able to work with animals. ” Mrs. Bates notes that she looks forward to working with the Animal Shelter team towards goals to take the Shelter to the next level to best support the community. Welcome Jamie! To get involved with the Animal Shelter or to learn more about the Animal Shelter ’ s initiatives, please visit them online and follow them on Facebook.
Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants and Loans
By: Orange County Communications Department
The USDA REAP Program provides guaranteed loan financing and grant funding to agricultural producers and rural small businesses for renewable energy systems or to make energy efficiency improvements. Agricultural producers may also apply for new energy efficient equipment and new system loans for agricultural production and processing. REAP grants have helped thousands of rural business owners go solar, reduce costs, and improve their energy security. Applications are due March 31, 2023. Learn more through USDA.
Page 29 | February, 2023
County Offers Facility Rentals Online By: Orange County Communications Department
Orange County citizens can now reserve the Barboursville Community Park and Unionville Community Park shelters through Parks and Recreation online at www.orangecountyva.gov/ocpr.
To reserve a shelter:
• Go to www.orangecountyva.gov/ocpr.
• Login to your account (or create an account if you haven ’ t done so already).
• Click on the “ Facility Rental ” tab.
• Click on the shelter you wish to reserve.
• Select the date(s) you wish to reserve.
If the date is green, then the date is available. If the date is yellow, then the date is only available from dawn to 5:00 p.m. If the date is greyed out, the date is not available Add the date(s) to you cart, then checkout.
During the checkout process, you will need to agree to the shelter agreements and pay for the rental. The cost to rent one (1) shelter is a flat fee of $35 with electrical outlets included, whether the rental is dawn to dusk, or dawn to 5:00 p.m. Renters will be responsible for ensuring the shelter is cleaned after use or be assessed a $50 cleaning fee.
For more information, please contact the Parks and Recreation Office at (540) 672 - 5435.
Barboursville Community Park 5260 Governor Barbour Street Barboursville, Virginia 22923
Unionville Community Park 24250 Narrow Gauge Road Unionville, Virginia 22567
Page 30 | February, 2023
Good Times Ahead! Mark Your Calendar for these Upcoming Community Events!
The Orange Painting Club at Arts Center in Orange: Every Tuesday
11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Whether you ’ re a beginner or have painted for years, this art club is for anyone who wants to explore watercolor painting with other community members.
For additional details, visit: https://www.artscenterinorange.com/events.
Karaoke Night at Patch Brewing: Every Thursday
6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Get loud, get weird, have fun! Adults Only on stage.
For additional details, visit: https://www.facebook.com/Patchbrewingco/events.
Trivia at Iron Pipe Alewerks: February 20, 2023 and March 6, 2023
6:15 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Bring your thinking caps and your smartest friends. Teams of up to six (6) are allowed.
For additional details, visit: https://www.facebook.com/IronPipeAlewerks.
The Unsuitables Band: Saturday, February 25, 2023
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Visit Woodbrook Family Farm for an evening of music. Food truck will be on - site.
For additional details, visit: https://wbvwine.com/.
Comedy Showcase: Saturday, March 4, 2023
6:00 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.
Visit The Inn At Willow Grove for a fun night of comedy. Seats limited.
For additional details, visit: https://www.innatwillowgrove.com/comedy - showcase.html.
Quilling Workshop: Sunday, March 12, 2023
3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
$15 per person. Space is limited, reserve your seat early.
For additional details, contact The James Madison Museum at (540) 672 - 1776.
Learn more about these and other events at: www.visitorangevirginia.com
Page 31 | February, 2023
Page 32 | February, 2023
https://www.orangecountyva.gov/213/Sign - Up - for - Emergency - Notifications
Page 33 | February, 2023
Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Bilingual Emergency Communications Officer Deputy Sheriff
Child Care Teacher - LES Child Care Teacher - LGPS Child Care Teacher Assistant - OES Library Aide - Wilderness Library Parks and Recreation Maintenance Worker
Firefighter / EMT Firefighter / Medic
Page 34 | February, 2023
Page 35 | February, 2023
New Welcome Signs Coming to Eight County Entrance Points Construction has officially begun on a series of entry - way signs for Orange County. Over the next few months, eight (8) entry way signs will be installed at various entrance points into Orange County. These signs are the end result of several years of effort and planning. Orange County is excited to welcome visitors and residents alike as they enter the County. Sign mocks ups and locations are listed below. By: Orange County Economic Development & Tourism
Sign 1: Route 3 & Route 20
Sign 2: Route 3 from Culpeper
Sign 3: Route 20 from Spotsylvania
Sign 4: Route 15 from Madison
Sign 5: Route 33 from Greene
Sign 6: Route 522 from Culpeper
Sign 7: Route 231 from Louisa
Sign 8: Route 522 from Spotsylvania
Page 36 | February, 2023
INSIGHT Please subscribe to our newsletter by clicking this link. You will receive each issue in your email every month.
Be sure to add newsletter@orangecountyva.gov to your contacts so it does not go to your junk folder.
Let your voice be heard... Orange County Public Hearings
Board of Supervisors
Planning Commission
• Tuesday, February 28, 2023, at 5:00 p.m.
No public hearings scheduled at this time.
Board of Supervisors ’ Meeting Room Orange County Public Safety Building 11282 Government Center Drive, Orange
Public Comment scheduled to take place at the second meeting of the month.
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.
Page 37 | February, 2023
Citizens Ask...
Q: How do I get a 911 address?
A: Orange County does not issue 911 addresses to vacant land. When you apply for your building permit to build a dwelling, you will put the driveway in and mark the four (4) corners of the new home, then call the Building Department at (540) 672 - 4574, and someone will come and do GPS coordinates to assign the 911 address. Q: Where can I get a copy of my marriage license? A: Citizens who applied for a marriage license in the County of Orange may visit the Orange County Circuit Court Clerk ’ s Office, located at 110 N. Madison Road, Orange, or contact the Circuit Court Clerk ’ s Office at (540) 672 - 4030. For more information on the Clerk ’ s Office, visit their website: http://orangecountyva.gov/194/Circuit - Court.
Juanesta Williams
Get to know Orange County staff... The Personnel File:
Support Technician
Juanesta Williams has worked for the Orange County Office on Youth since the fall of 2022. She is responsible for helping other staff members at the Office on Youth and greeting and helping clients. Juanesta enjoys helping customers and working with a broad and diverse audience of youth and their families. In this role, Juanesta is able to have a different outlook on youth services offered through Orange County. Outside of work Juanesta enjoys playing Fortnite with her wife and son. She also enjoys hosting family and friends at her home. Juanesta is a huge Harry Potter fan.
We are thrilled to have Juanesta use her experience to move us forward as an organization. Thank you Juanesta!
Page 38 | February, 2023
Orange County Communications Department 112 W. Main Street P.O. Box 111 Orange, VA 22960
POSTAL CUSTOMER
Meet Leonard Leonard is a very playful five (5) year old Shepherd mix. He came to us as a stray and unfortunately, no one came looking for him. He is very well - behaved, listens well, and walks nicely on a lead. He has also gotten along with other dogs he has met. Leonard has been neutered, dewormed, vaccinated, tested for Heartworm (negative) and microchipped.
You can view Leonard ’ s full bio on Petfinder.
If interested, please go to the Orange County website and fill out the preadoption application and submit it by email to the Director at gjenkins@orangecountyva.gov.
Page 39 | February, 2023 Find your new best friend at The Orange County Animal Shelter
Visit us on Facebook Find Adoptable Pets (540) 672 - 1124 Directions: 11362 Porter Road Orange VA 22960
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