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Orange County Insight October 2026

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

INSIGHT		1
Pages 3-4		1
Page 12		1
Frightfully Good Times Ahead		1
Pages 21-22		1
Parks & Rec. & Office on Youth Host Surveys		1
Victim Witness Program Presents Awards		1
October 2026		1
Administrator’s Minute		2
We’re here for you...		2
SUBSCRIBE		2
to the INSIGHT		2
newsletter@orangecountyva.gov		2
www.orangecountyva.gov		2
SIGN UP for COUNTY NEWS & ALERTS		2
OCI October 2026		2
Table of Contents		3
Share Your Thoughts! Public Input Sought for Two Departmental Surveys		4
Orange County is encouraging residents to participate in two currently available surveys that will help inform future goals for some of our departments.		4
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.		4
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.		4
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.		4
Orange County Office on Youth: (540) 672-5484		4
Orange County Parks & Recreation: (540) 672-5435		4
Take the		4
Office on Youth Needs Assessment		4
Take the		4
Parks & Rec. Community		4
Survey		4
OCI October 2026		4
orangecountyva.gov/ocprsurvey		5
What would YOU like to see from Parks & Recreation in Orange County?		5
Share Your Ideas!		5
orangecountyva.gov/ooyneeds		5
YOUR VOICE CAN HELP US:		5
IDENTIFY GAPS IN SERVICES		5
EXPLORE NEW YOUTH PROGRAMS		5
CONNECT WITH COMMUNITY PARTNERS		5
SEEK FUNDING FOR FUTURE RESOURCES		5
Important Election Dates		6
for the November 3, 2026 Election		6
FRIDAY		6
OCT. 23		6
MONDAY		6
OCT. 12		6
FRIDAY		6
OCT. 23		6
TUESDAY		6
NOV. 3		6
FRIDAY		6
SEPT. 18		6
WEEKEND VOTING		6
OCT. 18, 24, 25, 31		6
Last day to register, or update a registration.*		6
Last day to		6
request a mail-in ballot (by 5pm).		6
First day to vote early at Voter Registration Office.		6
Voting is closed for the holiday.		6
Saturdays: 9am-5pm		6
Sundays: 11am-4pm		6
Election Day,		6
Polls open		6
6am-7pm.		6
*Those who miss the deadline may be able to cast a provisional ballot through Election Day.		6
The Voter Registration Office is located at:		6
130 North Madison Road, Orange, VA 22960. Questions? Call (540) 672-5262.		6
OCI October 2026		6
New Resident Guide Mailing to Orange County Addresses this Month		7
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.		7
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.		7
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.		7
Coming Soon to Orange County Resident Mailboxes!		7
Orange County Public Schools to Host Budget Academies Oct. 21 & 22		8
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.		8
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.		8
“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.”		8
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.		8
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.		8
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.		8
Additional budget information is available on the division’s Finance Department webpage at www.ocss-va.org/departments/finance.		8
OCI October 2026		8
Winter Basketball League Registration Open Until November 1		9
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.		9
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.		9
Divisions include:		9
Ages 5-6		9
Ages 7-8		9
Ages 9-10		9
Ages 11-12		9
Ages 13-15		9
Registration for this and other recreational programs is available online at www.orangecountyva.gov/rec.		9
Department of Emergency Communications Announces Two Promotions		10
The Orange County Department of Emergency Communications would like to congratulate Justin Lynch and Dwight (Greg) Bedinger on their recent promotions to Communications Supervisor!		10
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.		10
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.		10
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.		10
OCI October 2026		10
Healthier Snack Options Now Available at Courthouse & Sedwick Building		11
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.		11
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.		11
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.		11
Orange County Tax Bills Mailed Earlier this Month		12
DON’T FORGET!		12
PAYMENTS FOR PERSONAL PROPERTY AND REAL ESTATE (1ST HALF) ARE DUE DECEMBER 7, 2026.		12
DEC.		12
VIEW BILLS ONLINE AT		12
WWW.ORANGECOUNTYVA.GOV/TAXPAYMENTS		12
OCI October 2026		12
OCSO Victim Witness Program Presents Awards to those Serving the Victims of Domestic Violence		13
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:		13
Community Partner Award:		13
Detective C.S. Norvelle		13
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.		13
Purple Ribbon Awards:		13
Investigator Erik Peterson		13
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.		13
Sergeant Chris Paris		13
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.		13
Deputy Jessalyn Robinson		13
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.		13
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.		13
OCI October 2026		14
Upgrades, LyncTV, and Orange County Projects		18
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.		18
LyncTV		18
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.		18
Orange County Projects		18
The construction team has been wrapping up our VATI2024 and preparing to focus on approximately 91 BEAD awarded locations throughout Orange County. These include:		18
District 1: 27 locations		18
District 2: 15 locations		18
District 3: 32 locations		18
District 4: 15 locations		18
District 5: 2 locations		18
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!		18
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.		18
OCI October 2026		18
Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation Accepting Comments & Survey Responses for Statewide Rail Plan		19
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.		19
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.		19
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/.		19
OCI October 2026		20
Notify Me		21
Receive Youth and		21
Adult Program Info by Text and Email!		21
Sign Up		21
Today		21
Easy to use!		21
Optimized for		21
mobile devices!		21
Try it out!		21
orangecountyva.gov/rec		21
OCI October 2026		22
More Treats than Tricks! Parks & Rec. Offers Spooky Fun		23
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!		23
Booooster Park Fall Festival		23
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).		23
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)!		23
Spooktacular Lights Tour!		23
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.		23
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.		23
Office Costume Contest		23
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!		23
OCI October 2026		24
OCI October 2026		26
OCI October 2026		28
2026 Orange County Holiday Schedule		30
New Year's Day		30
Thursday, January 1, 2026		30
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day		30
Monday, January 19, 2026		30
George Washington Day		30
Monday, February 16, 2026		30
James Madison's Birthdate (observed)		30
Monday, March 16, 2026		30
Memorial Day		30
Monday, May 25, 2026		30
Juneteenth		30
Friday, June 19, 2026		30
Independence Day (observed)		30
Friday, July 3, 2026		30
Labor Day		30
Monday, September 7, 2026		30
Columbus Day & Yorktown Victory Day		30
Monday, October 12, 2026		30
Election Day		30
Tuesday, November 3, 2026		30
Veterans Day		30
Wednesday, November 11, 2026		30
Noon Closure for Thanksgiving		30
Wednesday, November 25, 2026		30
Thanksgiving		30
Thursday, November 26, 2026		30
Day After Thanksgiving*		30
Friday, November 27, 2026		30
Christmas Eve		30
Thursday, December 24, 2026		30
Christmas		30
Friday, December 25, 2026		30
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.		30
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.		30
OCI October 2026		30
OC Employees Celebrated at Annual Appreciation Event		31
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.		31
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.		31
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!		31
OCI September 2026		31
Administrative Assistant - Commissioner of the Revenue		32
Animal Shelter Veterinarian		32
Upcoming Orange County Meetings		33
Board of Supervisors		33
Tuesday, October 27, 2026; 5:00 p.m.		33
Wednesday, November 18, 2026; 6:00 p.m.		33
Thursday, November 5, 2026; 6:00 p.m.		33
Planning Commission		33
Economic Development Authority		33
Wednesday, October 21, 2026; 5:30 p.m. at 109 West Main Street, Orange, VA 22960		33
Unless otherwise noted, listed meetings are held at:		33
Board of Supervisors’ Meeting Room		33
Orange County Public Safety Building		33
11282 Government Center Drive, Orange, VA 22960		33
Personnel File		33
Jamie Bates		33
Shelter Manager/Volunteer Coordinator		33
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.		33
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!”		33
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!		33
Arthur's Story		34

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