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Orange County Insight June 2026

Orange County's monthly source for in-depth information about activities, programs, events, and more.

INSIGHT		1
Honoring the Memory of Capt. Becky Jones		1
Page 3		1
New Digital Improvements		1
Pages 7-8		1
A ‘Favorite’ Baseball Experience		1
Pages 17-18		1
County Cup’s ‘Egg’citing Return		1
Pages 23-24		1
June 2026		1
Administrator’s Minute		2
We’re here for you...		2
SUBSCRIBE to the INSIGHT		2
Orange County Administration		2
Physical Address 112 West Main Street, Orange, VA 22960		2
Mailing Address P.O. Box 111 Orange, VA 22960		2
Phone: (540) 672-3313 Fax: (540) 672-1679		2
Email the Editor newsletter@orangecountyva.gov www.orangecountyva.gov		2
SIGN UP for COUNTY NEWS & ALERTS		2
OCI June 2026		2
Table of Contents		3
Orange County Mourns the Loss of Captain Becky Jones		4
Throughout her career, she demonstrated a steadfast commitment to protecting our community. As an ICAC Investigator, she dedicated countless hours to investigating crimes against children, helping bring justice to victims and ensuring those responsible were held accountable. Through her relentless work identifying and investigating child predators, Becky helped secure convictions that collectively resulted in thousands of years of prison sentences for offenders who preyed upon children. Her efforts not only brought justice to countless victims and their families but also prevented future victims from suffering at the hands of those offenders, creating a postive impact that will last for generations.		4
Above: Captain Becky Jones was a key leader in the Sheriff’s Office. She could often be found supporting the agency’s mission in a variety of ways, such as helping organize community events like National Night Out.		4
OCI June 2026		4
Orange County Honors the Memory of K9 Blek		5
On June 3, 2026, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office was saddened to report the passing of K9 Blek, who died from natural causes while on duty in the service of our residents. K9 Blek was an exemplary working dog, and had been a valued member of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office for more than eight years.		5
During his service, he assisted with countless drug interdictions, tracking operations, article searches, suspect apprehensions, and community engagement events. He was a trusted partner, a loyal teammate, and a beloved member of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office family.		5
Deputies and staff knew him as a gentle soul who brought joy to the office each day. K9 Blek was one of the special K9 officers able to both serve in dangerous situations and build relationships by interacting positively with members of the public. He will be sorely missed.		5
As valued as Blek was to the Sheriff’s Office as a whole, the connection between a K9 and handler is always truly special. Acknowledging that bond, We extend our heartfelt condolences to Sgt. Justin Neal and his family during this difficult time.		5
K9 Blek served with honor, loyalty, and dedication until his very last day. Thank you for your service K9 Blek; you are clear from duty. Rest easy.		5
PLAYIN' IN THE PARK		6
THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2026, AT 5:00 P.M.		6
PLEASE THANK OUR SPONSORS!		6
OCI June 2026		6
2025 Elementary School Flag Football Tournament Scores VACo Award		7
Orange County Parks & Recreation has been recognized with a Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) Achievement Award for the 2025 Elementary School Flag Football Tournament, hosted in partnership with the Orange County High School Football Team. This honor is the eighth VACo Achievement Award received by Orange County in the past five years!		7
Made possible by a strong partnership with the Orange County High School Football team, and the efforts of volunteer coaches at Gordon-Barbour Elementary School, Orange Elementary School, Lightfoot Elementary School, and Locust Grove Elementary School, the event included a week of practices followed by a Saturday tournament hosted at Porterfield Park. Eighty-five participants registered to play in less than a month. In fact, interest was so great for the inaugural program organizers had to create separate fourth and fifth grade divisions, and each school was able to field a team for each grade.		7
“We are thrilled this program brought so much excitement and joy to the community,” said Jenny Carpenter, Assistant Orange County Administrator. “The foundational success of the 2025 program helped foster even greater participation this year. We look forward to continuing, and expanding, partnerships to help make additional activities like this possible,” she added.		7
“Virginia’s counties continue to demonstrate that local government is where innovation meets action,” VACo Executive Director Dean Lynch said. “This year’s submissions reflect the creativity, leadership, and commitment county officials bring every day to solving real challenges and improving the quality of life for residents across the Commonwealth. Congratulations to all winners and thank you to all who participated.” More information about award-winning programs is available at www.vaco.org/county-connections/virginia-counties-recognized-for-model-programs-3/.		7
To stay updated about recreational activities offered by Parks & Recreation and other departments, visit orangecountyva.gov/notifyme and sign up for “Adult Program Notifications” and/or “Youth Program Notifications.” View the program catalog at orangecountyva.gov/ocpr or call the office at (540) 672-5435.		7
Learn more about the AWARD WINNING 2025 Elementary School Flag Football Tournament!		7
Parks & Recreation Excited to Launch New Online Registration System		8
To help users get a fresh start and ensure we have updated contact information, all participant households will need to create a new account in SmartRec before registering for Parks & Recreation programs. Existing accounts will not be transferred to the new system. The official launch will take place on June 29. No action is needed at this time, but please get ready to make the switch!		8
New System Launches June 29		8
We understand our residents may have questions during the transition. Current users should have received an email on June 9 with some additional information. For convenience, answers to some frequently asked questions are listed below. Learn more at www.orangecountyva.gov/smartrec.		8
So, what do I (the user) need to do?		8
Accounts from the current CivicRec platform will not transfer to the new system automatically. Be prepared to make a new account with Amilia SmartRec on June 29. Programs will be loaded onto the new system and available for registration in the coming weeks. Accounts with CivicRec (the current system) will be deleted at the end of the month.		8
What if I want my receipts and records from the old system?		8
If you wish to download any transaction receipts or other records from past programs, please do so before June 29. You can still access the current platform at www.orangecountyva.gov/ocpr.		8
What about existing programs, and/or shelter rentals, that I’ve already registered and paid for?		8
Don’t worry if you’ve already registered and paid for an activity or shelter rental that takes place after the transition.		8
You will receive a follow up message specific to your registration, but you will not lose your spot, and you will not be charged again.		8
OCI June 2026		8
By: Orange County Communicaitons Department		9
Tourism Department Promotes VA250 Activities, Including Synchronized Reading of the Declaration of Independence		12
The Orange County Department of Tourism is excited to promote a wide range of upcoming events and activities related to America’s Semiquincentennial, which is a historically fun word for 250th Anniversary. Please see the opposite page for some upcoming dates and times, and read on to learn more about how to participate in a nationwide celebration in honor of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence, which took place on July 8, 1776.		12
At 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, join the Orange County Historical Society and the James Madison Museum of Orange County Heritage on the front steps of the historic Orange County Courthouse for a reading of the Declaration of Independence by Thomas Jefferson (re-enacted by Marc Holma). The reading will be followed by the tolling of church bells to commemorate this momentous historical event. Dressing in colonial period clothing is encouraged.		12
This reading will be part of a synchronized reading occurring across the United States in capitol buildings, parks, schools, community centers, and even private homes. Just as the Declaration of Independence was read to the people 250 years ago, this coordinated reading will allow Americans in all 50 states and 16 territories of the United States to unite and celebrate the American spirit.		12
Learn more on the Orange County Historical Society’s website at www.orangecovahist.org.		12
OCI June 2026		12
Playin in the Park Independence Celebration		13
July 2; 5 - 10 pm		13
Booster Park		13
Fireworks at the Airfield		13
July 2; 6 - 10 pm		13
Gordonsville Municipal Airport		13
Constitution Tour		13
July 4; 1:30 pm		13
James Madison’s Montpelier		13
Sharing the Spirit of America: Synchronized Reading of the Declaration of Independence		13
July 8; 6:00 pm		13
Historic Orange County Courthouse		13
Historic Germanna’s 70th Anniversary		13
July 16 - 19; Time Varies		13
Historic Germanna		13
The Dissenters: A Presentation about the 10,000 Names Petition		13
October 10; 3 pm		13
Orange County Historical Society		13
Monteplier Hunt Races		13
November 7; 9 am - 6 pm		13
James Madison’s Montpelier		13
Ongoing or Multi-Week Events		13
The Market at Grelen Garden Guide Experience		13
Elijah Craig History & Cocktail Trail		13
Salon 1776		13
Learn more at www.va250.org/orange-county		13
Construction Begins on Madison Road Facility & Apartments		14
Work has begun near Dogwood Village on the new Madison Road Apartments project, made possible through a partnership between Orange County and Encompass Community Supports. The new facility, which is located on property owned by Orange County, will help provide important services to our residents.		14
Once complete, the facility will address two primary needs, early childhood services and affordable housing.		14
The ground floor will be devoted to services for children and families, such as		14
Infant Toddler Connection (ITC) — Provides early intervention services for infants and toddlers up to age three who have, or may be at risk for, developmental delays.		14
Support Coordination Services — Offers guidance and care coordination for children ages 0–18 with mental health needs, helping them succeed at home, in school, and in the community.		14
Parent‑Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) — An evidence‑based program for children ages 2–7 that helps parents build skills to manage challenging behaviors through structured coaching and play.		14
To address the second goal, the upper levels of the Madison Road building will be dedicated to high‑quality, energy‑efficient apartments reserved for low‑income residents. These units will provide stable, affordable housing opportunities for many residents that call Orange County home.		14
The development will add 21 new low‑income apartment units, including 18 one‑bedroom units and three two‑bedroom units, helping address the region’s growing need for affordable housing options.To learn more about services provided by Encompass Community Supports, visit www.encompasscommunitysupports.org.		14
OCI June 2026		14
Extension Office & 4-H Summer Activities Offer Barnloads of Fun!		16
The Orange County Extension Office offers activities for a variety of ages. Every year, many of our residents participate in 4-H programming, camps, the Orange County Fair, and other activities supported by the Extension Office.		16
This summer, the Office is offering the return of some favorite activities as well as the launch of brand new programs. Click the flyer for each to visit that program’s registration page (if applicable).		16
String together a good time during our upcoming Jewelry Making Workshop, enjoy a good book in the company of some fantastic barnyard friends (open to all ages) during the new Book Buddies program, or sign up your young camper for the always-popular Cloverbud Camp. Make this summer one to remember!		16
Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and local governments, and is an equal opportunity employer. For the full non-discrimination statement, please visit www.ext.vt.edu/accessibility. For assistance participating in these activities, please contact Erin Berkery, Orange VCE at (540) 672-1362.		16
OCI June 2026		16
Orange County Fair - 4-H Activity Schedule		17
June 24		17
June 25		17
June 26		17
June 27		17
Learn more about the Orange County fair!		17
A ‘Favorite’ Baseball Experience with Parks & Rec. Programs		18
Earlier this month, Orange County Parks & Recreation (OCPR) was able to bring home their Diamond Dayz activities by hosting their weather-delayed MLB Pitch, Hit, and Run event. Despite the rescheduling, staff were happy to see many familiar faces, including Gunner Favorite. For the past two years, this young athlete has been making a name for himself at OCPR baseball events. Last year, Gunner won Orange County's local MLB Pitch, Hit & Run competition in the 9/10 age division, earning the opportunity to advance to the Washington Nationals Team Championship at Nationals Park. Competing against some of the top young baseball players in the region, Gunner finished second, narrowly missing a championship title.		18
Looking back on the experience, one memory stands out to Gunner the most. "The thing I remember the most about advancing to the Washington Nationals Team Championship was like, 'WOW, I am standing on a pro field,'" Gunner said. "I didn't know anybody there like I do when I play local, but we all had a great day and I got to go to a Nats pro game. Thank you for this memory. I loved it!"		18
Earlier this spring, Gunner was once again in the spotlight during our inaugural Diamond Dayz celebration. Created as a week-long series of baseball-themed events designed to celebrate the sport and bring the community together, the event featured a unique “Bunt Derby.” Gunner became the first-ever Bunt Derby Champion, taking home the inaugural gold bat trophy. "Winning the first Bunt Derby was special and I loved the gold bat trophy," he said.		18
MLB Pitch, Hit & Run was originally scheduled to be part of Diamond Dayz as well, but weather forced a postponement until June. When held earlier this month, Gunner once again came out on top, winning the local 11/12 age division. Advancement to the next level has not yet been determined; qualifying results are expected later this summer. While his accomplishments on the field are impressive, Gunner says his favorite part of participating is much simpler.		18
OCI June 2026		18
"My favorite part about competing in the MLB Pitch, Hit & Run in Orange was being with my friends," he said. "The Rec Department is always nice and supports the kids to do their best. It was awesome to win and advance to the next level at the Washington Nats Stadium. I was so excited." Gunner's passion for baseball is evident whenever he steps onto a field. "In general, I just love baseball. I could play every day," he said.		19
When asked what he would tell other kids about participating in OCPR programs, his answer was simple. "You should get involved in Parks & Rec events. It is super fun to be with your friends having a fun time. The people at Parks & Rec make you feel good about yourself. They work hard to help kids out." For Gunner's parents, Russell and Sara Favorite, the experiences and memories created through these programs have been just as meaningful as the accomplishments. "Watching Gunner succeed in Parks and Rec events makes us realize how fortunate we are to live in a small rural area that believes in community relationships," they said. "Gunner loves being on the field anywhere, anytime, with anybody. He's a 'let's play ball' kind of kid."		19
They also credit the programs with helping Gunner build friendships, confidence, and sportsmanship. "Gunner has made friends and memories at every ballfield he has played. He is a people person, and events like Orange County Parks & Recreation baseball programs truly build confidence. The lasting impact of friendship and sportsmanship will be memories he will carry forever."		19
Whether competing in Pitch, Hit & Run, participating in Diamond Dayz, or simply spending time on the ballfield with friends, Gunner's story highlights what youth recreation is all about: having fun, building confidence, creating lasting memories, and sharing a love of the game.		19
Want to participate in upcoming activities? Visit page 19 or check out our online catalog of programs at www.orangecountyva.gov/ocpr. Don’t forget, we’re changing to a new registration system at the end of this month. Learn more on page 7.		19
INTERMEDIATE WILD CAVING		20
OCI June 2026		20
DISC		21
DISC		21
~ presents ~		21
DAWN		21
DAWN		21
‘TIL		21
‘TIL		21
Cost Share for Septic System Repairs Open to All Residential Properties in Orange County		22
Attention homeowners! Do you have your own septic system? When was the last time you had it pumped out or inspected? Do you know how well it functions? As a homeowner, it is in your best interest and beneficial for local streams and groundwater to maintain your system and the Culpeper Soil and Water Conservation District (CSWCD) is here to help!		22
The CSWCD has recently received additional funding for its residential septic cost share program which allows the District to expand its eligible area to include all of Orange County! Previously, it was limited to just the Rapidan and Upper York watershed areas. Now, the entire county can benefit.		22
Cost Share Payment Amounts		22
Pump Out		22
50% of cost or $225 max (up to $360 low income)		22
Pump Out & Inspection		22
50% of cost or $3,250 max (up to $5,200 low income)		22
Repair		22
50% of cost or $3,750 max (up to $6,000 low income) Alternative systems not eligible		22
Conventional System		22
50% of cost or $6,250 max (up to $10,000 low income)		22
Conventional System with Pump		22
50% of cost or $8,250 max (up to $13,200 low income)		22
Engineered / Alternative System		22
50% of cost or $15,750 max (up to $25,200 low income)		22
Connection to Public Sewer		22
50% of cost or $6,250 max (up to $10,000 low income)		22
Connection to Sewer with Pump		22
50% of cost or $10,250 max (up to $16,400 low income)		22
This program 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.		22
It is a win-win for both water quality and property value. If you have not had your septic system pumped out in the last five years, and you are a resident of Orange County, you are eligible! This program is available for residential properties only. The program offers 50 percent reimbursement for any occupied residential property, with up to 80 percent for low-income households. See the chart for reference.		22
Pump outs with an inspection extend the life of a system and prevent higher costs later on if the systems fail. If further repairs are indicated by the pump out and 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.		22
Further information on the program is available from the District at (540) 948-7531 or (540) 825-8591. Funding for these projects has been secured by the CSWCD from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, Commonwealth of Virginia.		22
OCI June 2026		22
*Items listed on pages with orange footers primarily pertain to Orange County employees.		23
EGG TOSS TOP 15		24
OVERALL 2026 COUNTY CUP STANDINGS		24
Staff ‘Shell’ebrate Return of County Cup Competitions		25
Without a doubt, County Cup competitions help create some great memories at work for our team. Presented by our Parks & Recreation Department, these challenges give staff the opportunity to enjoy some fun and fellowship. County Cup activities are varied to present the greatest opportunity for staff participation without interfering with operations. That being the case, some events are arranged to be held off-site and at-leisure, such as creating NCAA Basketball Tournament brackets. The last couple of activities were formatted this way. However, it’s often the in-person activities which create the greatest positive impact.		25
On these occasions, it’s common to see many smiles and hear the crack of jokes. However, it was the crack of egg shells that took center stage during our last event. The Egg Toss is a classic, crowd-favorite County Cup challenge. Organized by department, every two-person team had to toss an egg back and forth without breaking it (drops were ok as long as the shell remained intact). After each clean catch, the teammates stepped further apart, with standings decided by which team was able to successfully complete a toss with the greatest separation.		25
Adding to the fun (and since the contest took place at lunch time), Parks & Recreation provided hotdogs and sodas to those observing other teams’ performances. Despite the heat, participants were thrilled to enjoy some friendly competition and the fun “boiled” over.		25
Above: Recreation Programmer (and grill champion) Jacob DeLoriea prepares hotdogs.		25
Below: Sheriff’s Office Senior Administrative Assistant Valencia Bowman demonstrates proper PPE for egg toss competitions.		25
After all the eggs had splattered, a three-way tie remained at the top. The Sheriff’s Office team of Sarah Altman & Valencia Bowman proved they really didn’t need Valencia’s improvised protective gear (see picture), completing a throw at 40 feet. Matching that distance were the Extension Office team of Emily Roberts and Erin Berkery, as well as the Assessment team of David Cooke and Jayne Rogers. Even with a point split, the strong finishes from this event made big overall standing impacts for the Extension Office (from 11th place to seventh), A-Team (from 12th to eighth), and the Sheriff’s Office (from fifth to third). The next event will be open to all staff at July’s Employee Wellness Expo.		25
Look like fun? Good at catching eggs?* Maybe you can participate in our next County Cup event! Consider applying for one of our open positions at www.orangecountyva.gov/jobs.		25
Below Left: Budget Manager Scott Johnson makes a clutch catch, tossed by Finance Director Andrew Oliver.		25
Below Middle: “The yoke’s on you!” Extension Agent Emily Roberts falls victim to a cracked egg after an impressive run with teammate Erin Berkery, 4-H Educator		25
Below Right: GIS Analyst Paul Namie and Public Safety Radio Manager Cole Shifflett enjoy hotdogs while Jacob photobombs like a pro.		25
*We’re joking. Egg catching and tossing ability is not considered during job application reviews.		25
*Items listed on pages with orange footers primarily pertain to Orange County employees.		25
OCI June 2026		26
Friends of the Wilderness Battlefield’s Tour at Payne’s Farm		27
OCI June 2026		28
OCI June 2026		30
Check out the library’s calendar for specific dates and details!		32
Animals Unlimited		32
June: Read a fiction book		32
July: Read a graphic novel		32
w w w.eatsmar t.ex t.vt.edu		32
OCI June 2026		32
2026 Orange County Holiday Schedule		33
New Year's Day		33
Thursday, January 1, 2026		33
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day		33
Monday, January 19, 2026		33
George Washington Day		33
Monday, February 16, 2026		33
James Madison's Birthdate (observed)		33
Monday, March 16, 2026		33
Memorial Day		33
Monday, May 25, 2026		33
Juneteenth		33
Friday, June 19, 2026		33
Independence Day (observed)		33
Friday, July 3, 2026		33
Labor Day		33
Monday, September 7, 2026		33
Columbus Day & Yorktown Victory Day		33
This holiday schedule is subject to change and applies only to those County Government offices under the purview of the Orange County Personnel Policy Manual. Some offices may follow alternate schedules, such as the Landfill and Collection Sites. Public safety departments (Sheriff’s Office, COFEMS, E911) remain available 24/7.		33
The Board of Supervisors may grant additional holidays, under special circumstances, throughout the year. County employees will be notified of additional holidays after they are granted.		33
Background		35
Problems with EPS Foam		35
It takes at least 500 years for EPS to breakdown, and less than 1% is recycled.		35
It can blow out of trashcans and enter the environment as litter.		35
Wildlife can mistake it for food and can’t digest it.		35
It is made of styrene, a possible carcinogen. Chronic exposure to high levels of styrene can cause liver and nerve tissue damage.		35
Alternatives		35
Suggested alternatives include reusable containers and those made from recycled paper, bamboo, wheat straw, foil & metal, and recyclable plastic.		35
More Information: www.deq.virginia.gov/eps Contact: (804) 659-2663, VA-landr@deq.virginia.gov Scan the QR Code to View the Law		35
OCI April 2026		35
Accounting Technician		36
Development Services Director		36
Animal Shelter Veterinarian		36
Solid Waste Equipment Operator I (PART-TIME)		36
Upcoming Orange County Meetings		37
Board of Supervisors		37
Tuesday, June 23, 2026; 5:00 p.m.		37
Tuesday, July 14, 2026; 5:00 p.m.		37
Thursday, July 2, 2026; 6:00 p.m.		37
Planning Commission		37
Economic Development Authority		37
Wednesday, July 15, 2026; 5:30 p.m. at 109 West Main Street, Orange, VA 22960		37
Unless otherwise noted, listed meetings are held at:		37
Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room Orange County Public Safety Building 11282 Government Center Drive, Orange, VA 22960		37
Review the Orange County Economic Development and Tourism 2025 Annual Report!		37

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