Orange County Insight October 2026

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

VIBRANT ECONOMY

EFFECTIVE, REFLECTIVE GOVERNMENT SUSTAINABLE LAND USE ENHANCED QUALITY OF LIFE

INSIGHT

Parks & Rec. & Office on Youth Host Surveys Pages 3-4 Victim Witness Program Presents Awards Page 12

Frightfully Good Times Ahead Pages 21-22

October 2026

Administrator’s Minute

There is plenty to celebrate this season, too! From our Parks & Recreation fall festivities to the many activities offered by our libraries and community partners, there are wonderful opportunities to get out, have some fun, and enjoy all that Orange County has to offer. Finally, I want to thank our dedicated County employees for the work they do every day to serve our community. Our recent JUICE Employee Appreciation event was a great reminder that, while our responsibilities and challenges may change, our commitment to service and to one another remains strong.

We’re here for you... Orange County Administration Speaking of new services, FiberLync continues to make great strides in connecting our community. In addition to ongoing network improvements and expanded broadband access, the team is preparing to launch LyncTV, a new television service expected to be available in late November. With several channel packages and local programming options, this is another exciting step in FiberLync's efforts to meet the evolving needs of our residents. October is one of my favorite times of year in Orange County. The changing leaves, cooler temperatures, and busy calendar of community activities remind us of what makes this such a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. This month's Insight highlights several ways we are working to strengthen connections with our residents. Our Parks & Recreation Department and Office on Youth are both seeking community input through surveys that will help shape future programs and services. I encourage you to take a few minutes to share your thoughts. Your feedback is important as we plan for the future and work to make the best use of our resources. I'm also excited about the upcoming delivery of our first Orange County Resident Guide! This new publication is designed to help residents better understand and access the many services, programs, and resources available through County government. Whether you've lived here for decades or just recently made Orange County your home, we hope you'll find it useful.

I hope you enjoy this month's edition of Insight, and I wish everyone a safe and beautiful fall season!

Warm regards, Glenda Paul Orange County Administrator

SUBSCRIBE to the INSIGHT

Physical Address 112 West Main Street,

Orange, VA 22960 Mailing Address P.O. Box 111 Orange, VA 22960 Phone: (540) 672-3313 Fax: (540) 672-1679 Email the Editor newsletter@orangecountyva.gov www.orangecountyva.gov

Cover Photo: Victim Witness’ award recipients pose in front of the Sheriff’s Office window.

OCI October 2026

Table of Contents

Pages 3-4

OCPR & OOY Surveys Seek Community Input

Page 5

Library Survey Results & Don’t Forget Early Voting

Page 6

New Resident Guide Coming Soon

Page 7

Public Schools to Host Budget Academies Oct. 21 & 22

Page 8

OCPR & EOAA Winter Youth Basketball League

Page 9

Emergency Communications Recognizes Promotions

Page 11

Tax Bill Details & Payment Information

Pages 13-14 Library Smithsonian Associates Programming Takes Off

Pages 15-16 Fire Prevention Month & Halloween Safety

Page 17

FiberLync Update

Page 18

Statewide Rail Plan Survey Open

Page 19

Triad to Host Seminar on Wills, Trusts, Asset Protection, and Estates

Pages 21-22 Spooky Fun Hosted by OCPR

Page 25

Hazardous Waste Collection Event Details

Page 30

Orange County Employee Appreciation Event Recap

Share Your Thoughts! Public Input Sought for Two Departmental Surveys

By: Orange County Communications Department

Orange County is encouraging residents to participate in two currently available surveys that will help inform future goals for some of our departments. The Office on Youth Needs Assessment survey launched on September 23 and seeks public input regarding current service gaps in Orange County related to topics like mentoring, health care, safety education, life skills, literacy, parenting, and more. In addition to learning about desired programming, the Needs Assessment will also help identify obstacles to service availability. Find it at www.orangecountyva.gov/ooyneeds.

The Parks & Recreation Community Survey became available on October 5. Offered by the department with support from the Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee, it provides an opportunity for residents, program participants, and park patrons to provide information about what they view as priorities for future Parks & Recreation development in Orange County. Topics include program preferences, athletic field needs, recreation center interest, and much more. This survey is available at www.orangecountyva.gov/ocprsurvey.

Please be aware that while the two surveys may overlap on youth-related topics, each is a distinct opportunity for public input. Those interested are encouraged to complete both surveys. More information is available by contacting the departments hosting the surveys at the numbers listed below.

Orange County Office on Youth: (540) 672-5484 Orange County Parks & Recreation: (540) 672-5435

Take the Office on

Take the Parks & Rec. Community Survey

Youth Needs Assessment

OCI October 2026

orangecountyva.gov/ocprsurvey What would YOU like to see from Parks & Recreation in Orange County?

Share Your Ideas!

YOUR VOICE CAN HELP US: orangecountyva.gov/ooyneeds

IDENTIFY GAPS IN SERVICES EXPLORE NEW YOUTH PROGRAMS

CONNECT WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS SEEK FUNDING FOR FUTURE RESOURCES

Important Election Dates for the November 3, 2026 Election

Last day to request a mail-in ballot (by 5pm). FRIDAY OCT. 23

Voting is closed for the holiday. MONDAY OCT. 12

Last day to register, or update a registration. * FRIDAY OCT. 23

TUESDAY NOV. 3 Election Day,

FRIDAY SEPT. 18

WEEKEND VOTING OCT. 18, 24, 25, 31

Saturdays: 9am-5pm Sundays: 11am-4pm Oct. 31 is the last day to vote early.

First day to vote early at Voter Registration Office.

Polls open 6am-7pm.

*Those who miss the deadline may be able to cast a provisional ballot through Election Day. The Voter Registration Office is located at: 130 North Madison Road, Orange, VA 22960. Questions? Call (540) 672-5262.

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By: Orange County Communications Department New Resident Guide Mailing to Orange County Addresses this Month

Mailboxes throughout Orange County will soon receive a brand new publication from Orange County - the 2026 Resident Guide! Intended to provide a tangible resource to connect residents with the many services offered by Orange County, this guide is currently in print and will ship soon. Insight subscribers will also receive a digital version of the Resident Guide as an “extra” publication in early November. Rooted in the same spirit as the Orange County Insight, the idea for the guide arose out of a desire to reach as many residents as possible, including those who may not be able to access our online resources. Since the printed guide includes links and details about many other engagement opportunities, we are hopeful that this once-per-year effort will create new connections to, and increase awareness of, our programs, meetings, events, and services. As a sneak preview, some of the Guide’s content will include: listings of Orange County departments with details about their services, hours, contact information, and more; a map identifying office locations, links to the County’s budget, code, and notification signups; frequently requested details about Parks & Recreation, the Libraries, and the Landfill & Collection Sites; plus much, much more! Keep an eye out for its delivery.

Coming Soon to Orange County Resident Mailboxes!

Orange County Public Schools to Host Budget Academies Oct. 21 & 22 Adapted from an Orange County Public Schools Press Release Dated October 7, 2026

As a part of the 2027-2028 division budget planning process, Orange County Public Schools will host two Budget Academies, inviting community members to learn about the division’s budget and help inform future planning. Attendees will learn about the OCPS budget process, the challenges and opportunities facing the division, and the next steps in budget development. As part of each academy, participants will work through a mock budgeting process to explore how funding decisions are made and consider the tradeoffs involved in balancing school needs with available resources. Both sessions will include time for questions and feedback. “The budgeting process for OCPS represents a critical component in ensuring every student receives a quality education,” said Dr. Daniel Hornick, Superintendent. “We want our community to understand how the division’s budget is developed and have opportunities to be involved. Our Budget Academies will give participants a chance to work through those decisions themselves and share their perspectives as we plan for our schools’ future.” Last spring, the OCPS School Board approved a balanced budget, with $75,377,174 in both revenue and expenses, for the 2026–2027 school year. Supporting students and investing in teachers and staff remain priorities as the division plans for future needs.

The first Budget Academy will be held on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 9:00–10:00 a.m. at the Taylor Education Administration Complex. The second will take place on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 6:00–7:00 p.m. at Locust Grove Middle School.

All community members are invited to attend and take part in the conversation. Light refreshments will be provided. Please RSVP at https://bit.ly/3Vwyeke.

Additional budget information is available on the division’s Finance Department webpage at www.ocss- va.org/departments/finance.

OCI October 2026

Don’t forget! Parks & Recreation is teaming up with Elite Orange Athletic Association (EOAA) to offer a youth basketball league for the winter. Registration opened for the league on Monday, September 14, and is open to kids aged 5-15. Play will begin in January and will be hosted at Locust Grove Primary, Locust Grove Elementary, and Locust Grove Middle schools. EOAA has been operating a great program for several years, and this new partnership will build upon that success by bringing additional support and resources to the floor from Orange County Parks & Recreation! The result will be an even better experience for young athletes and their parents. Five age divisions are planned for the league, depending on registration numbers. Registration includes a jersey; the fee is $85 per participant, with sibling discounts available (15% for one additional sibling and 25% for two or more additional siblings). Be sure to register interested young athletes by November 1. By: Orange County Communications Department Winter Basketball League Registration Open Until November 1

Divisions include: Ages 5-6 Ages 7-8 Ages 9-10

Ages 11-12 Ages 13-15

Registration for this and other recreational programs is available online at www.orangecountyva.gov/rec.

Department of Emergency Communications Announces Two Promotions By: Matthew Garvey, Director, Orange County Emergency Communications Department

The Orange County Department of Emergency Communications would like to congratulate Justin Lynch and Dwight (Greg) Bedinger on their recent promotions to Communications Supervisor! Justin joined the department in 2019, and Greg joined in 2023. Both have worked to develop their knowledge and skills in our department’s protocols and have completed the state dispatch academy. They have also served as Communications Training Officers, helping new employees learn the job and develop the skills necessary to serve our community. In their new roles, Justin and Greg will be assigned shifts to oversee and manage, providing leadership, guidance, and support to our Communications Officers. They will also attend supervisor-specific training through the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) and quality assurance training through the International Academy of Emergency Dispatch (IAED). This additional training will help strengthen their leadership skills and ensure our calls continue to meet established standards and protocols. Please join us in congratulating Justin and Greg on this well-deserved accomplishment! We look forward to seeing them grow in their new roles and contribute to the continued success of our department.

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Healthier Snack Options Now Available at Courthouse & Sedwick Building By: Orange County Communications Department

To help encourage wellness among Orange County employees and members of the public, the Wellness Program of our Human Resources Department has refreshed the vending machines located in select Orange County facilities, like the Sedwick Building.

New healthier choices include snacks with additional protein, higher fiber, low (or no) added sugar, and more. Prefer traditional (less healthy) treats? Don’t worry, they still have their place among our new options. These new snacks have another benefit that goes much further than just relieving the munchies. Ten percent of sales will benefit our Wellness Program! That means each salty or sweet treat purchased can help unwrap support holistic wellness for county employees.

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By: Orange County Communications Department Orange County Tax Bills Mailed Earlier this Month

The Orange County Treasurer’s Office is alerting residents and property owners that bills for the first half of 2026 real estate taxes, as well as bills for personal property taxes, were mailed this week.

Payment of these bills is due no later than Monday, December 7, 2026. Those who do not receive their bill(s) should contact the Treasurer’s Office at (540) 672-2656. In addition to the mailed copies, billing statements are available online at www.orangecountyva.gov/taxpayments.

There are several options for tax bill payment. Please note that fees will be added for credit card payments (3.75% fee, $2.50 minimum) and e-check payments ($0.95 fee).

1. In-person payments can be made at the Orange County Treasurer’s Office at 112 West Main Street, Orange, VA 22960. The Treasurer’s Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. An after-hours drop box is also available at the entrance. Items left in the box will not be processed until the following business day. 2. Mailed payments may be sent to Orange County Treasurer, P.O. Box 469, Orange, VA 22960. To avoid the late payment penalty, it is encouraged to mail payments early and ensure they are postmarked on or before December 7. If mailing within a few days of the due date, visit the post office in person and request a postmark at the desk. 3. Payments can be completed online at www.orangecountyva.gov/taxpayments. Payment options are available on this page for Real Estate and Personal Property bills. 4. Call (540) 661-5307 to pay by automated phone system. Press 1 for personal property (be sure to have your personal property ID number) or press 2 for Real Estate (be sure to have the tax year and bill number ready).

Questions? Please use the contacts below:

For more information about tax bill payment, please contact the Orange County Treasurer’s Office at (540) 672-2656. Those with questions about real estate assessments should contact the Real Estate Assessment Department at (540) 672-6173. For questions about personal property, such as vehicles, contact the Commissioner of the Revenue’s Office at (540) 672-4441.

VIEW BILLS ONLINE AT WWW.ORANGECOUNTYVA.GOV/TAXPAYMENTS DON’T FORGET! PAYMENTS FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE (1ST HALF) ARE DUE DECEMBER 7, 2026.

DEC. 7 MONDAY

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OCSO Victim Witness Program Presents Awards to those Serving the Victims of Domestic Violence

By: Jennifer Aylor, Victim Witness Program Director, Orange County Sheriff’s Office

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, October, Orange County Victim Witness presented our fourth annual Community Partner Award and Purple Ribbon Awards! Nominated individuals displayed unique qualities and went above and beyond to serve victims of domestic violence by ensuring that their needs are met as soon as possible. This year’s awards were presented as follows:

Community Partner Award: Detective C.S. Norvelle

Detective Norvelle continues to support victims in the Town of Orange in his new role. He notifies Victim Witness almost immediately when he is assigned a case where a victim could benefit from additional resources. Throughout his investigations, he keeps Victim Witness updated so we can better assist victims. Detective Norvelle is extremely thorough and vested in seeing his cases through the criminal justice system.

Purple Ribbon Awards: Investigator Erik Peterson

Investigator Peterson goes above and beyond to assist victims in his cases. He works closely with Victim Witness to make sure domestic violence survivors feel supported and are connected with needed resources. Peterson supports victims throughout the entire criminal justice process by attending court hearings and meetings with the Commonwealth’s Attorney and sharing updates with victims. Peterson’s compassion for domestic violence survivors extends far past the conclusion of a case and he enjoys hearing updates on how they are doing. Sergeant Chris Paris Going to court and seeing an offender can be stressful and scary for survivors of domestic violence. Sergeant Paris with court security, helps make things a little easier by working with Victim Witness to help victims feel safe and protected during hearings and trials. This includes arranging to have more bailiffs in the courtroom when needed and keeping an eye on things in and around the courthouse after a hearing to ensure victims feel safe leaving court. Deputy Jessalyn Robinson In her short time with the Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Robinson has already made a big impact with domestic violence survivors. She takes the time to listen to victims to understand their situation and explain how she and Victim Witness can better help them. Her compassion for domestic violence survivors does not stop at the initial call for service. She often attends hearings and checks in with Victim Witness to see how the victims in her cases are doing. The Orange County Victim Witness Program is sponsored by and located in the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. The program works with all law enforcement and community agencies in Orange County, including the Town of Orange Police, Town of Gordonsville Police, Lake of the Woods, the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, Orange County Department of Social Services, and many others. The program provides services to approximately 900 clients/year.

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October is Fire Prevention Month

By: County of Orange Fire & EMS Department

A fire can happen quickly, but taking simple precautions can help prevent fires and give you and your family the time needed to escape safely. Use Fire Prevention Week as an opportunity to review your home’s fire safety and make sure everyone knows what to do. 🔥 Make fire safety a priority this Fire Prevention Month! 🏠 Make a Home Fire Escape Plan Create a fire escape plan and practice it with everyone in your household.

Know two ways out of every room, if possible. Choose a safe meeting place outside your home. Make sure everyone knows how to get outside safely. Practice your escape plan regularly.

Working smoke alarms provide an early warning when a fire occurs. Test smoke alarms regularly. Replace batteries when needed if your alarms use replaceable batteries. Have smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Replace smoke alarms according to the manufacturer's recommendations. 🍳 Practice Cooking Safety 🔔 Check Your Smoke Alarms

Cooking is a leading cause of home fires. Stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling food. Keep anything that can catch fire away from the stovetop.

Keep pot handles turned inward. Never leave cooking unattended. Never use water on a grease fire.

OCI October 2026

By: County of Orange Fire & EMS Department Halloween Safety Tips

🎃 Fab-BOO-Lous Halloween Safety Tips Halloween is this month! As we get ready for costumes, trick-or-treating, and spooky fun, let’s keep safety in mind to help make it a safe and enjoyable celebration for everyone.

Wear bright or reflective clothing. Carry a flashlight or glow stick. Stay on sidewalks and use crosswalks when available. Look both ways before crossing the street. 👻 Be Seen: With more children and families out after dark, take these precautions:

🎭 Choose Safe Costumes

Choose costumes that fit properly and won't cause trips or falls. Make sure masks don't block vision. Avoid long, trailing pieces. Add reflective tape or materials to costumes when possible.

🍬 Check Halloween Treats

Check treats before children eat them. Make sure packages are sealed and undamaged. Throw away anything that looks open, torn, or unusual. Choose age-appropriate treats for young children and watch for choking hazards.

Keep candles and open flames away from costumes and decorations. Consider battery-operated candles instead. Keep doorways, exits, and walkways clear. Check electrical decorations for damage and avoid overloading outlets. 🚒 Practice Fire Safety

Halloween brings extra pedestrians into our neighborhoods. Drivers should slow down, stay alert, avoid distractions, and watch carefully for children around intersections, driveways, crosswalks, and roadways. 🚗 Drivers, Slow Down

Let’s all do our part to make Halloween safe, fun, and enjoyable for everyone! 🎃🚑

Upgrades, LyncTV, and Orange County Projects

By: Joshua Crawford, Director of Operations, FiberLync

Over the past few months, the FiberLync team has been working hard to upgrade and improve our existing network. Some of our projects include adding higher capacity equipment at our Mountain Track site, and hardware investment to triple our bandwidth connection to our upstream partners expected to be completed mid-October 2026. LyncTV Our introduction of LyncTV continues to progress as we continue to install the equipment needed for service. Expected to be available by late November 2026, LyncTV will offer four different channel packages, with the option of local channels from Charlottesville or DC. Learn more at www.fiberlync.net/lynctv.

Orange County Projects The construction team has been wrapping up our VATI2024 and preparing to focus on approximately 91 BEAD awarded locations throughout Orange County. These include:

District 1: 27 locations District 2: 15 locations District 3: 32 locations District 4: 15 locations District 5: 2 locations

We encourage those interested in service to check availability and pre- register for service at Fiberlync/Check Availability. When your address becomes serviceable, our Customer Service Team will contact you with more information! If you have further questions, please visit our website at www.fiberlync.net, call us at (540) 360-0585, email us at info@fiberlync.net, or stop by our Customer Service Center: 105 Byrd St., Orange, VA 22960.

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The Virginia Statewide Rail Plan (VSRP) establishes a vision for the future of passenger and freight rail in Virginia. It catalogs current rail service and infrastructure, including ridership and freight tonnage; it quantifies the impacts of rail and state investments; and it outlines proposed projects for both short-term (6-year) and long-term (20-year) investment horizons. In 2026, DRPT is updating the current Rail Plan and is seeking feedback to ensure the updated plan reflects the needs and priorities of passengers, freight partners, and communities across the Commonwealth. Public and Stakeholder engagement is an essential element of the rail plan process. For Orange County residents, this is an opportunity to express interest in the return of passenger rail service to our area. More information can be found online at https://drpt.virginia.gov/studies-and- reports/virginia-statewide-rail-plan/. Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation Accepting Comments & Survey Responses for Statewide Rail Plan Adapted from the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transporation’s Website

OCI October 2026

Notify Me

orangecountyva.gov/rec

Receive Youth and Adult Program

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Info by Text and Email! Sign Up Sign Up Today Today

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More Treats than Tricks! Parks & Rec. Offers Spooky Fun

Pumpkin spice everything is back, but Orange County Parks & Recreation (OCPR) is stirring up more seasonal fun than any barista. The bulk of the excitement takes place at the end of the month, but interested folks can sign up now to make the most of the season! By: Orange County Communications Department

Booooster Park Fall Festival OCPR’s signature event of the season, the Fall Festival is known for its outdoor movie night. This year, the event returns to its decade-old roots (when it was called the Family BOOvie Night) by bringing back the first fearsome flick we ever played, Hocus Pocus! However, the event is much more than just a movie. It includes a costume parade, photo booth, a magician/juggler, community resource tables, and free popcorn (while supplies last). The magic takes place at Booster Park on Friday, October 23, starting at 5:00 p.m. The movie will begin at approximately 6:45 p.m. Want to participate in the costume parade? Use our online signup form (it’s free)!

Spooktacular Lights Tour! Orange County residents are invited to decorate their homes for Halloween and submit their address to be featured on our community-wide Spooktacular Lights Tour. Whether your display is spooky, silly, creative, or completely over-the-top, we want to help the community find it! There is no cost to participate or enjoy the tour. Want to be part of the tour? Use our online form to enter at www.orangecountyva.gov/oclights. Just want to check out decorations, visit our map (provided by Orange County GIS), at www.orangecountyva.gov/oclightsmap.

Office Costume Contest Our popular Office Costume Contest returns for 2026! Gather your coworkers, figure out your group theme, and submit your entry form online at www.orangecountyva.gov/costumes. It’s free to enter! Prizes include donuts, trophies, and bragging rights!

OCI October 2026

Upcoming Community Events

...mark your calendar for good times!

James Tamelcoff LIVE at The Barn at 678 October 17

Part of the Event Series: James Tamelcoff Live at The Barn at 678. October 17 from 2:00pm-5:00pm. 6045 Governor Barbour St., Barboursville, VA 22923. You can also see James Tamelcoff Live at The Barn at 678 on Saturday, November 28 & Saturday, December 19, 2026.

Annual Orange Downtown Trick-or-Treat Event October 30

A Spooktacular ”ghouled” time in downtown Orange. A fun & safe, family-friendly community event is planned from 4:00pm - 6:00pm. Wear your favorite costume and visit participating businesses for treats! The event will take place on East and West Main Street, Short Street and in Taylor Park. Outdoor Movie Night: Kelly’s Heroes at Horton Vineyards November 6 Join us at Horton Vineyards for an evening under the stars with a screening of the classic film Kelly’s Heroes. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and settle in for a relaxed night among the vines. Popcorn and milkshakes will be available for purchase. Admission: Free to enter.

91st Annual Montpelier Hunt Races November 7

Experience a spectacular day at Montpelier filled with thrilling horse racing, elegant tailgating, family fun, and timeless Virginia tradition. Gather your family and friends, dress to impress, and enjoy the excitement of the races, the creativity of the hat contests, and everything that makes this beloved event a can’t-miss Orange County tradition.

Town of Gordonsville Veterans Day Parade November 7

Veteran’s Day Parade route along N. Main Street in Gordonsville, VA. Followed by awards ceremony at the Gordonsville Fire House (301 East Baker Street). The event is planned for 2:00 pm- 4:00 pm. If you have any questions, reach out to the Gordonsville Parks and Recreation Manager at avaldez@gordonsville.org.

Looking for more? Learn about other events at www.visitorangevirginia.com

Events listed on this page are not necessarily hosted, sponsored, or endorsed by Orange County.

OCI October 2026

2026 Orange County Holiday Schedule

New Year's Day

Thursday, January 1, 2026

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Monday, January 19, 2026

George Washington Day

Monday, February 16, 2026

James Madison's Birthdate (observed)

Monday, March 16, 2026

Memorial Day

Monday, May 25, 2026

Juneteenth

Friday, June 19, 2026

Independence Day (observed)

Friday, July 3, 2026

Labor Day

Monday, September 7, 2026

Columbus Day & Yorktown Victory Day

Monday, October 12, 2026

Election Day

Tuesday, November 3, 2026

Veterans Day

Wednesday, November 11, 2026

Noon Closure for Thanksgiving

Wednesday, November 25, 2026

Thanksgiving

Thursday, November 26, 2026

Day After Thanksgiving* *Landfill & Collection Sites Open

Friday, November 27, 2026

Christmas Eve

Thursday, December 24, 2026

Christmas

Friday, December 25, 2026

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.

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.

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By: Orange County Communications Department OC Employees Celebrated at Annual Appreciation Event

Last month, Orange County celebrated its annual employee appreciation event, known as the J.U.I.C.E. Event, at Booster Park! This celebration brings together team members from across the organization, helping to break down silos and reinforcing that we’re all working towards the same goal: serving the public. At the event, staff enjoyed fellowship, lunch, games, and recognitions for employees who have gone above and beyond. One way we recognize those staff is through “J.U.I.C.E. Awards.” Submitted by coworkers who notice an employee doing something awesome, these awards began as part of our Culture Initiative several years ago, and continue to be a very popular way to give kudos among our team members.

Some of the most-recognized staff members include Julia Lindsay of our Development Services Department, Amanda Znamierowski of the Treasurer’s Office, Cindy Hawkins of General Services, and Rashad Robinson of Information Technology. Rashad holds the distinction of most “J.U.I.C.E. Awards” received by any employee , which is even more impressive when considering his relatively short tenure. For (just) the past two years, Rashad, has helped keep Orange County connected by troubleshooting hardware, software, network, and system issues. Sometimes the solution is as simple as restarting a computer; other times, it takes serious troubleshooting skills. No matter the challenge, his goal is simple: put a smile on the County’s face, and he always makes it happen.

His example, and that of the many other recognized team members, is demonstrative of the hard work, dedication, and can-do attitude of Orange County’s public servants. Interested in joining our award-winning team? View the current job openings listing on the next page, visit www.orangecountyva.gov/jobs, or sign up for career opportunity notifications at www.orangecountyva.gov/notifyme. One of our available roles could be perfect for you!

OCI September 2026

Orange County Employee Anniversaries

29 years, Kathryn Hill, Library 26 years, Mark Sikora, Fire & EMS 23 years, Roger Wilson, Fire & EMS 18 years, Noah Madden, Fire & EMS 16 years, Peyton Fincham, Landfill 16 years, Randy Williams, Fire & EMS 14 years, David Mcmaster, Sheriff's Office 12 years, Xiushka Gibson, Sheriff's Office 7 years, Robin Breckenridge, Social Services 6 years, Tyler Nolasco, Sheriff's Office 5 years, Tabatha Rhoades, Social Services 4 years, Robyn Chapman, Office on Youth 4 years, Cassandra Singh, Emergency Communications 4 years, Mia Haggart, Social Services 3 years, Terrance Davis, Sheriff Court 3 years, Carlee Verling, Circuit Court Clerk

2 years, Thomas Nguyen, Social Services 2 years, Millard Shum, Sheriff's Office 2 years, Joslynn Morales, Animal Shelter 2 years, Mary Bowling, Office on Youth 1 years, Christopher Jones, Landfill 1 years, Pamela Crisp, Animal Shelter 1 years, Jeffrey Smith, Landfill 1 years, Francis Johnson, Finance 1 years, Mary Anne Sparks, Finance 1 years, Ashlee Middleton, Fire & EMS 1 years, Amanda Ball, Social Services

We’re Hiring!

FULL-TIME

PART-TIME

Administrative Assistant - Commissioner of the Revenue

Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Benefits Specialist Chief of Fire & EMS Deputy Sheriff

Animal Shelter Veterinarian Code Enforcement Officer Copy Cataloger Solid Waste Technician

Family Services Specialist I/II Foster Care Family Services Supervisor - Protection Unit FiberLync IT Support Specialist Planner / Senior Planner Self Sufficiency Supervisor

Questions? Call Human Resources at (540) 661-5440. For Sheriff’s Office positions ONLY, call (540) 672-7219. VIEW ALL OPENINGS AT ORANGECOUNTYVA.GOV/JOBS ORANGECOUNTYVA.GOV/JOBS

OCI October 2026

Upcoming Orange County Meetings

Board of Supervisors

Planning Commission

Economic Development Authority Thursday, November 5, 2026; 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 21, 2026; 5:30 p.m. at 109 West Main Street, Orange, VA 22960

Tuesday, October 27, 2026; 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 18, 2026; 6:00 p.m. This meeting will be held at Lake of the Woods Clubhouse, 205 Lake of the Woods Parkway, Locust Grove, VA 22508

Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room Orange County Public Safety Building 11282 Government Center Drive, Orange, VA 22960 Unless otherwise noted, listed meetings are held at:

This information is for reference only and subject to change. 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. Worksessions may be added as necessary . Pursuant to the applicable section of the Code of Virginia, notices for all public hearings will be posted in our newspaper of circulation at least seven days prior to the hearing date, or as required by code.

Personnel File For nearly four years, Jamie has been making a difference as Orange County’s Animal Shelter Manager and Volunteer Coordinator! A veteran who served as a military police officer, Jamie brings dedication, discipline, and a strong sense of service to her work every day. Working alongside Director Gina Jenkins, she oversees daily shelter operations, staff, volunteers, animal care, and public education. No two days are ever alike, and Jamie and her team are always ready to face whatever comes through the door, from roadside strays to large-scale animal cases. Her favorite part of the job? Watching a once-terrified, shut-down dog blossom into a confident, loving companion and reuniting lost pets with their families. She also enjoys welcoming school groups, camps, and youth organizations to learn about animal care.

Jamie Bates Shelter Manager/Volunteer Coordinator

Outside the shelter, Jamie is a true cowgirl at heart! She loves roping, cowboy mounted shooting, working cattle and sheep, camping with her horses, and cheering on her kids at sporting events. Her dream trip is exploring Ireland and Scotland for their castles, history, horses, and agricultural heritage. Her advice for success? “Be loyal to your goals, your values, and your future—NEVER STOP LEARNING!” Fun facts: Jamie is a proud dog person, especially when it comes to herding and working breeds, and her newest obsession is Kerry Hill sheep. Her first concert was Garth Brooks, her favorite song is “Buckaroo Tattoo” by Bren Hill, and her ideal office setup includes a shelter dog by her side. Her morning must- have? Caffeine!

Meet Arthur! Arthur 's Story

Art hur is a 6-year-old, 67-pound hound who arrived at the shelter as a stray. Shelter life has been overwhelming for this sweet boy, and the busy kennel environment makes him anxious. Step outside with him, though, and you'll meet a completely different Arthur. Arthur's Story Arthur is a 6-year-old, 67-pound hound who

Arthur’s P ersonality Traits: Quiet, Independent, Curious, Shy, Affectionate, Friendly, Funny, Brave, Playful Arthur’s Personality Traits:

Arthur is neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, dewormed, heartworm tested, and current on monthly flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Gentle, affectionate, and eager to be close to his people, Arthur is happiest enjoying quiet time, a walk, or simply soaking up attention. He has a loving heart and is ready to trade kennel stress for the comfort of a home where he can finally relax. Arthur has done well with other dogs. Gentle, affectionate, and eager to be close to his people, Arthur is

Find your new BEST FRIEND!

Orange County Animal Shelter 11362 Porter Road Orange, VA 22960 (540) 672-1124 orangecountyva.gov/adoptapet

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orangecountyva.gov