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 l ENHANCED QUALITY OF LIFE
INSIGHT
Landfill to Host Special Waste Collection Events Pages 10 - 12 Finding Information Regarding RSA Water Incident Pages 3 - 4
COFEMS Training Reaches New Heights Pages 17 - 18 Programs Honored with VACO Awards Pages 13 - 14
September 2024
Page | September 2024
Team Orange,
I ’ d like to take the opportunity to recognize an Orange County department that has much to celebrate and much to look forward to. While not one of the most visible departments to the public, it is nonetheless a very critical one to keeping the rest of us up and running. I ’ m speaking of Orange County Public Works. Just a couple of weeks ago, Public Works initiatives earned a pair of Virginia Association of Counties Achievement Awards. First, they were recognized for a training program that supported continuing education and skills development for employees (and members of the community). Next, Litter Control, a committee housed under Public Works, received an award for their Plastic Film Recycling efforts! We are starting to see a trend of winning multiple awards annually due to the creativity and innovation of our team members. Speaking of recycling and waste disposal, residents should mark their calendars for the upcoming Free Tire Disposal and Hazardous Waste Collection events (also Public Works - related efforts). See pages 10 - 12 for more details about how to participate. Our Public Works Team has been evolving over the past few years to become more innovative and service oriented. They work every day to support the community and all the rest of our departments by maintaining our facilities and grounds so that we can deliver services to our citizens. And now they can add the superlative “ award - winning ” to their name. Way to go!
Ted Voorhees
Orange County Administrator
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Physical Address 112 W. Main Street Orange, VA 22960 Mailing Address P.O. Box 111 Orange, VA 22960
Phone: (540) 672 - 3313
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Cover Photo: County of Orange Fire & EMS practices loading a patient on a waiting helicopter during a training exercise.
Page | September 2024 Page 1 | September 2024
Orange County Continues to Enjoy Increase in Visitor Spending
By: Orange County Economic Development and Tourism Department and Orange County Communications Department
Nestled in the scenic and historic Piedmont region of Virginia, Orange County has long been a special place for visitors. As visitors look to find unique and authentic experiences, it continues to deliver. Meaningful initiatives like the award - winning Edna Lewis Menu Trail and the Orange Uncovered series help tell the story of Orange County in a way that resonates with the traveling public, and it ’ s being noticed. Just a few months ago, Good Morning Washington featured our attractions in a series of videos for their viewers. Recently, Southern Living published articles focused on the Town of Gordonsville, the Town of Orange, and nearby attractions. Notoriety like this reinforces what we already knew, Orange County is a great place to live and visit. The numbers tell a similar story! According to the most recent statistics released by the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC), visitor spending for Orange County reached $54.4 million in 2023, a 3.1% change over 2022. Tourism - supported jobs in Orange totaled 660 while local tourism - related taxes were $3 million.
At the state level, Virginia generated a record high $33.3 billion in visitor spending in 2023, an increase of nearly 10% from 2022, exceeding pre - pandemic levels by 14.7%. The tourism industry in Virginia directly supported over 224,000 jobs in 2023, an increase of over 13,000 jobs relative to 2022. Direct travel employment is now at 93% of pre - pandemic employment levels. Visitor - facing industries accounted for more than 5% of all jobs in Virginia last year.
All five categories of visitor spending in the Commonwealth have now fully recovered to pre - pandemic levels and beyond. Those categories include recreation, transportation, lodging, food & beverage, and retail. Recreation was the fastest growing category in 2023, up 12% over 2022 and 24% beyond pre - pandemic levels, more than any other category, as travelers continue to show a strong preference for experiences. “ Visitors contribute significantly to the tax base in Orange County and 2023 was a banner year for the local industry. In addition to year - over - year growth, Orange surpassed its pre - pandemic spending levels by 19.3%” said Julie Perry, Director of Economic Development and Tourism. “ We ’ re proud of the historic sites, craft beverage producers, agritourism attractions, small businesses and boutique lodging partners that work so hard to make Orange County a great destination for everyone to enjoy!"
Learn more about our attractions at www.visitorangevirginia.com.
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COFEMS Thanks Orange County Community for Support During Water Incident
By: Orange County Fire & EMS and Orange County Communications
The unprecedented incident related to the Wilderness Water Treatment plant which began August 21 required a community, indeed state - wide and beyond, response. Many residents selflessly came forward to help their neighbors who were impacted by the emergency. From within Orange County and beyond, we received many donations of water as well as volunteer support to distribute it to those in need. Some of this took place at the COFEMS - operated distribution locations. However, many such examples of community - mindedness took place in a way that the doers of those good acts remain anonymous or unknown to us, but that does not make their efforts any less valuable. Below, we wanted to take a moment and recognize some of those who stepped up and helped at our water distributions during our community ’ s time of need. We appreciate their support, it is part of what makes Orange County a great place to live.
Water Donations
Food for the Distributors
Orange County High School Intern
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Betsy Jenkins – Boot Hill Trucking
Mamas Pizza in Locust Grove
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Orange Volunteer Fire Company
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PermaTreat in Fredericksburg
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Chris Marshall – Unionville Tire
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Many Community Members
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PermaTreat in Fredericksburg
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Christ in Action
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Rappahannock - Rapidan Medical Reserve Corps
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Coca - Cola
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Water Distributors
Derrick Anderson ’ s Campaign
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Derrick Anderson ’ s Campaign
RedCross
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Food Lion
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Gordonsville Volunteer Fire Company Lake of the Woods Fire & Rescue
Many Community Members
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Fredericksburg Moose Lodge 1655
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Orange County Staff & Elected Officials
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Hoffman Plumbing
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Lifepoint Church
Lake of the Woods Lions Club
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Services Provided
McDonald ’ s
Lifepoint Church
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A&M Repair Shop and Towing
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Walmart
Mine Run Volunteer Fire Company
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Orange County Public Schools
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Many Community Members
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Where and How to Learn More About the Wilderness Water Treatment Plant Incident and Response
By: Orange County Communications Department
On Wednesday, August 21, an incident occurred that impacted customers of the Wilderness Water Treatment Plant (WTP), operated by Rapidan Service Authority (RSA). Following initial reports by users and plant staff of an unusual odor in the water supply, RSA issued a “ Do Not Use Advisory. ” Later that day, Orange County issued a Local State of Emergency and activated its Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Over the next several days, Orange County departments worked with multiple local, state, and federal agencies, including Rapidan Service Authority (RSA), the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM), Virginia ’ s Department of General Services Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS), the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) to ensure the safety of the water supply and restore access to residents, to communicate information, to investigate the cause of the incident, and to provide resources to those impacted for the duration of the state of emergency and beyond. As the situation improved, the “ Do Not Use Advisory ” was reduced to a “ Do Not Drink Advisory ” on Saturday, August 24. On Tuesday, August 27, this advisory was also lifted, and Orange County ended the Local State of Emergency. We understand that many of our residents were impacted by this event, and they may have remaining questions and concerns. With that in mind, please visit the following resources which provide the most updated information regarding the incident, the response, the investigation, and what continues to be done.
The best collection of updated information is available on the incident webpage hosted by VDH at: www.vdh.virginia.gov/drinking - water/wilderness - water - treatment - plant - contamination .
Additionally, a detailed update regarding the incident was presented to the Orange County Board of Supervisors at the September 10 Board Meeting. A recording of that presentation is available for public viewing in our Agendas & Minutes Portal. The presentation regarding the water incident begins at timestamp 2:09. Access the video directly using the link below.
https://orangecova.portal.civicclerk.com/event/338/media
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EpIC to Host Naloxone Distribution Event in Orange County on Save A Life Day
By: Orange County Communications Department
On September 26, Orange County will participate alongside localities from over 30 states in hosting a free naloxone distribution event as part of Save a Life Day. Naloxone - better known by one of its brand names, Narcan - is an easy - to - use nasal spray that works to reverse opioid overdoses. This medication was approved for over - the - counter distribution in 2023. Orange County ’ s event is being organized by the Epidemic Intelligence Council (EpIC), a cross section of community leaders and citizens whose mission is to collaboratively address substance misuse in Orange County by strategically using resources to initiate action, including education, addressing root causes of addiction, identifying resources, and supporting sustainable recovery.
First organized in 2018, EpIC is currently undergoing a revitalization of its initiatives. Strategic discussions and asset mapping exercises have been conducted regularly since the start of the year, with the goal of identifying gaps in service and coordinating the right partnerships to fill those gaps. Organizing distribution events as part of Save a Life Day is one avenue to help save lives right now while connecting those in need with resources to support long term recovery. All Orange County Save a Life Day event attendees will receive one naloxone kit, an in - person training, and information about local resources. Equipped with this medication and the knowledge of its use, participants will be better prepared to save the life of an individual experiencing an opioid overdose. Those interested in receiving a naloxone kit can visit one of the following locations on Thursday, September 26 between 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Virginia Department of Health 450 North Madison Road Orange, VA 22960
Parking Lot Grass Patch at the Wilderness Center Shopping Center 5483 Germanna Highway Locust Grove, VA 22508 Those with questions should contact Ashley Jacobs, Management Analyst, at (540) 672 - 3313 or ajacobs@orangecountyva.gov. Save a Life Day started as a two - county pilot in West Virginia in 2020, and by 2023 spread to all 13 Appalachian states. This year ’ s event will include all states east of the Mississippi River. For more information about Save a Life Day, visit www.soarwv.org/east.
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Library Encourages Adult Readers to “ Fall ” Into a Good Book with New Bingo Program
By: Orange County Communications Department
Cozy time is here, and it ’ s the perfect season for reading. In fact, September is National Library Card Sign Up Month! With that in mind, the Orange County Library has launched a new bingo card program for adult readers. First, visit any of the three library locations to get a bingo card (and a library card if needed). Then, start reading and enjoying the library ’ s available resources to stamp spaces towards a “ bingo. ” Each space encourages patrons to explore a different fall theme or library resource. Examples include: “ Read a first book in a series, ” “ Read a book with ‘ fall ’ in the title, ” and “ Check out or stream & listen to a music album. ”
To make it easy and fun, the libraries have set up end caps like the one pictured with book suggestions to help you stamp more spaces. Complete a bingo to win a small prize and be entered in a drawing for larger prizes at each branch. Please participate at only one branch location.
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Voter Registration & Elections Reminds Residents about Deadlines for the Upcoming Election
By: Orange County Communications Department
The Orange County Office of Voter Registration and Elections would like to remind residents about upcoming dates and deadlines for the November 5 general election. Early voting for this election will begin Friday, September 20, at the Office of Voter Registrations and Elections. This department recently relocated to 130 North Madison Road, Orange, VA 22960, which utilizes the same parking lot as the Sedwick Building.
Any registered voter in Orange County is eligible to vote early. Office hours for early voting will be 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Additionally, early voting will be available on two Saturdays, October 26 and November 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. November 2 is the LAST DAY to vote early for the upcoming election. The final day to request a mailed ballot will be Friday, October 25. Want to participate in the election process? Poll workers are critical to the conduction of a fair and efficient election. Those able are asked to consider applying to be an Officer of Election. Only registered voters in Virginia are eligible to serve in the Commonwealth. Officers of Election are compensated for their service and Virginia law requires employers to allow anyone who serves as an Officer of Election to take leave on Election Day without using vacation time or being subject to disciplinary action. For more information or to apply, visit www.elections.virginia.gov/officer - of - elections. Sample ballots will be available in mid - September. Voters will be voting for President/Vice - President, U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, and a Constitutional Amendment. Voters in the Towns of Orange and Gordonsville will also be voting to elect Town Council members. If you are not registered or need to make changes to your registration, please note the deadline to do so is Tuesday, October 15. Please call (540) 672 - 5262 with any registration or election - related questions.
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Two Special Waste Collection Events Coming Soon!
By: Orange County Communications Department
Mark your calendars and get ready to dispose of some unwanted items! Fresh off the success of the June Electronics Recycling Event, the Orange County Landfill and Orange County Litter Control are preparing for additional events focused on difficult - to - dispose - of items.
The first is the semi - annual Free Tire Disposal event (formerly known as Tire Amnesty, see next page for a flyer ). This program presents Orange County residents with the opportunity to responsibly dispose of up to eight passenger vehicle tires without paying the usual tipping fee of $3.50 per tire. It is voucher - based, meaning participants must first get a voucher (maximum of two per household) before disposing of tires. To receive a voucher, simply visit the Orange County Public Works Office (NOTE: Not the Orange County Landfill) at 11350 Porter Road, Orange, VA 22960 during the voucher period of September 23 through October 4. This program is only open to Orange County residents and taxpayers. Bring identification with you that can verify your status . A driver ’ s license, tax bill copy, utility bill, etc. are examples of acceptable documents. Those receiving waivers will be required to sign an agreement regarding the terms of the disposal program. A limited number of vouchers will be available; they are first - come, first - served. From October 7 - 31, tires can be brought to the Orange County Landfill, along with at least one voucher, to be properly discarded without paying a tipping fee. Remember, no business waste will be accepted, and tires must be of the sizes commonly used for passenger vehicles and pickup trucks. Oversized, commercial, or agricultural tires cannot be accepted through the voucher program. Additional restrictions apply, learn more at www.orangecountyva.gov/1093/Tire - Amnesty - Event, or call (540) 672 - 9600. The second event will be held on Saturday, October 12, from 8:00 a.m. to noon at the Orange County Landfill. The Hazardous Waste Collection Event is an annual opportunity to discard unwanted hazardous materials that cannot usually be collected at the landfill or collection sites. Some of the most commonly - accepted materials at these events include paint, gasoline, and fluorescent lightbulbs, but many additional items can also be taken ( see flyer on page 12 ). Items that cannot be accepted include (but are not limited to) explosives, asbestos, medical waste, compressed gas tanks, unknown materials, and appliances. Furthermore, please note that no item can be accepted in a container larger than five gallons , even if the material itself is acceptable. For example, a 20 - gallon tank of gasoline cannot be accepted, but four individual five - gallon cans would be acceptable. This restriction is in place out of courtesy to other event attendees; the time and equipment required to empty larger containers means fewer residents can participate. Additional restrictions may apply. Historically, this event has had a great turnout. Those interested in visiting the Landfill itself or the Porter Road Collection Site on October 12 should expect event - related delays . To avoid a delay, consider visiting after the event or using one of our many alternate collection sites for household trash. Contact the Landfill at (540) 672 - 9315 with any questions regarding the Hazardous Waste Collection Event.
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Partnerships Earn Orange County a Pair of 2024 VACo Achievement Awards
By: Orange County Communications Department
At the close of last month, Orange County was pleased to learn that the Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) had recognized two of our programs with 2024 Achievement Awards. These awards are part of a competitive program which recognizes local government initiatives in awards criteria that include innovation, cooperation and model practices. Thanks to our dedicated team, Orange County has enjoyed several wins over recent years, including: COFEMS ’ Whole Blood Project in 2022, as well as Economic Development & Tourism ’ s Edna Lewis Menu Trail and COFEMS ’ Firefighter/EMT Education & Workforce Partnership Initiative in 2023. This year built upon those successes and shed light on the great work of some of our less visible departments. The first recognized program was Public Works ’ Facility Maintenance Staff Education Partnership. Regular Insight readers may remember mention of this program earlier this year. The motivation for this partnership occurred when leadership recognized a disparity in training opportunities across the organization. Virtual and remote education is widely available for office staff seeking to expand their skillsets or develop professionally. It ’ s true that some similar options exist for trade - focused education, but practical skills assessment requirements (where students must physically demonstrate competency) are less easily adapted to virtual learning. For example, a student tasked with diagnosing faulty wiring cannot fully demonstrate that skill through written or online tests. To provide more practical and effective continuing education opportunities, Orange County Public Works partnered with Germanna Community College ’ s Center for Workforce Development. As the only program of its kind among local governments in Virginia, this partnership removed the location barrier by providing onsite weekly classes held after work hours. Classes were part of the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) Facility Maintenance Apprenticeship curriculum, and focused on skills such as core craft skills, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc. Even better, the everyday routine of addressing work order requests created opportunities for our staff to apply those experiences toward class completion requirements! Offered at no cost to the employee, this training has expanded the skillsets of our team and created a foundation for growth within the agency. Thanks to this, Orange County can be more selective about which jobs require an outside vendor, creating meaningful and long - term cost savings in facility maintenance budget lines. The result is a win - win situation which promotes positive professional development for our employees while maintaining responsible stewardship of taxpayer funds.
For example, we did not need to enlist the help of an electrician for tasks like appliance wiring in our administration building ’ s new kitchen. This job required running wire from multiple panel boxes, using the correct gauge of wire in the right locations, and installing the right outlets for all needed appliances, including a dishwasher, refrigerator, microwave, and stove. A similar - scale electrical project recently completed at
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another building cost Orange County $4,300. Hiring an outside electrician for this single job, completed by one of our maintenance technicians, could have cost the County much more than the entire expense incurred enrolling our maintenance staff in the Electrical Level 1 class. However, the advantages didn ’ t end there. Seeking to make the arrangement more viable for Germanna and more advantageous to the greater community, we did not limit classes to our employees. Local trade - focused businesses also took advantage of the more convenient class location and enrolled their employees, who participated alongside Orange County Public Works staff. As this program is new and still underway, it is serving as a useful beta test for considering other professional development opportunities. Continuing to develop this partnership with Germanna Community College presents the opportunity to facilitate more advanced journeyman studies for our maintenance employees. Going one step further, many of the lessons learned from this effort could facilitate the creation of education programs for other departments specific to their needs. Many of their areas of study would be readily applicable to the services we offer, such as Computer & Information Technology, Public Service & Safety, Healthcare, Business & Hospitality, and more.
Our second 2024 Achievement Award recognized Litter Control ’ s Plastic Film Recycling Program. This innovative approach to managing one of the most pervasive but difficult - to - recycle items also made use of a partnership to achieve more than we could on our own. Solid waste disposal in Orange County strives to provide convenient and effective options for our residents to dispose of their refuse in a way that is safe, affordable, and environmentally responsible. Collection and recycling sites are dispersed throughout
the county to ensure that very few residents experience more than a 15 - minute drive to get rid of their household trash. Furthermore, despite rising industry challenges, Orange County still offers single - stream recycling options for most recyclables. Single - stream is a great benefit for recycling as a whole. Generally speaking, more items are recycled this way than would be with separate collections. However, the equipment and processing required to make single - stream recycling practical are ill - suited to handling plastic films. In short, they “ gum up the works. ” An alternate disposal avenue was needed, and the NexTrex Recycling Challenge provided the perfect opportunity. Through this program, Orange County gathers plastic films from residents and receives a high - quality composite bench for use at a community facility for every 1,000 pounds (roughly 90,000 bags) collected.
Beginning in the spring of 2023, Litter Control placed cardboard collection bins at six convenient locations in Orange County. Partnerships with Love Outreach Food Pantry and Sedwick Building Supply further increased film collection. As of this publication, we have taken delivery of one bench (located at the Animal Shelter) and will soon take delivery of a second. We are already ahead of the pace needed to receive a third bench. This program has gone a long way to reducing plastic waste in the landfill while giving it new life. Residents disposing of plastic bags are encouraged to participate in this program rather than throwing such items in the trash.
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COFEMS Elevates Training with Multi - Agency Rescue Simulations
By: Susan Turner, Senior Administrative Assistant, Orange County Fire & EMS, and Orange County Communications Department
Over three days in August, County of Orange Fire & EMS (COFEMS) conducted quarterly training for their shifts. Our first responders are no strangers to high - fidelity training, but this series of simulations reached new heights, literally! Each of our three shifts participated in the training, but on separate days. Training day began with multiple skills stations and lectures, discussing patient assessment, airway management, whole blood administration, and truck operations. Each crew ended the day by participating in a full - scale exercise to test the skills refreshed that morning.
The nature of the exercise was intentionally kept secret from participants to ensure the most realistic conditions possible. Trainings were held on August 7,
21, and 29 at Booster Park. In light of the proximity to Skydive Orange and the Orange County Airport, a scenario was chosen which focused on high - angle rescues and involved a pair of skydivers (portrayed by realistic training manakins) who had evidently crash - landed on top of the park ’ s pavilion. COFEMS personnel attended to the incident as if it were an actual emergency. They began by coordinating a response to the location, and set up ground ladders to access the roof. Medics climbed on top of the pavilion and split into teams to address the needs of each
simulated patient, which provided a culmination of that morning ’ s classroom training. Lending their voices and physical assistance to the manakins, training personnel adapted the patient ’ s reactions to test the responders. For example, simulating a patient that was yelling incoherently and moving frantically added a significant amount of difficulty to the situation. After providing immediate necessary care, each team prepared their patient to be moved into a Stokes basket, a type of rescue litter or carrying device used to secure and transport patients in difficult situations or terrain. Working with Ladder Truck 23 from Orange Volunteer Fire Company, the truck ’ s ladder was used to lift the patient over the peak of the roof, and then lower the patient carefully to the ground. Maneuvering the patient this way required
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steady, purposeful coordination and communication between those operating the ladder, those on the roof handling tag lines, and those on the ground receiving the patient. If that wasn ’ t enough, COFEMS leadership added an additional level of realism to the exercise by coordinating with external agencies. In fact, two of the three trainings involved the participation of an actual helicopter. Both PHI Air Medical from Brandy Station, and the FBI Hostage Rescue Team,
based in Quantico, lent aerial support during the scenario by landing, receiving a patient, lifting off, and returning for the second patient. Some of our staff even went along for the ride to provide for the simulated patient and gain more exposure to the continuum of care during aerial transport.
Following the exercises, “ hot wash ” meetings were held incorporating COFEMS staff, trainers, and partner agencies. This discussion provided the opportunity for additional learning about best practices, especially when a patient will be transported by helicopter. Trainers complimented the overall performance of our staff, especially noting the communication between team members.
The value of this hyper - realistic training was proven when crews responded to a (rare) actual call of a skydiving incident on August 18, coincidentally in the middle of the previously scheduled trainings. Much like the exercises, that call involved coordinating with Orange Volunteer Fire Company and transporting a patient to the Orange County Airport for transition to a helicopter. These exercises are just one example of how COFEMS staff keep their skills sharp year - round. While it ’ s hoped that some of these skills won ’ t be needed, our team is ready when the call does come.
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Locally Made Market Returns!
By: Orange County Economic Development
The Orange County Economic Development Office is very excited to announce the selected vendors who will participate in the 4th Annual Locally Made Market at the Montpelier Hunt Races. Congratulations to Inseparability Designs, Original Designs by Maria Pace, Bound2Please Books, Metal Maiden Jewelry, and Samurai Creatives! The Locally Made Market is an initiative of Orange County Economic Development which seeks to provide local small businesses with increased exposure and access to a larger customer base through a shared vendor tent at the Montpelier Hunt Races. The program is competitive. Interested businesses were required to submit an application to the Economic Development Office by the end of last month for review. The Montpelier Hunt Races will take place on Saturday, November 2. Those that attend are encouraged to stop by and visit the Locally Made Market in the Vendor Village to learn more about these local Orange County businesses.
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Good Times Ahead! Mark Your Calendar for these Upcoming Community Events!
Orange Farmer ’ s Market: Every Saturday through Oct. 26, 2024
Come visit the new Orange Farmer ’ s Market to buy local produce and other items. Bringing back the concept of farm to table. Providing our community with local foods and goods. The Orange Farmer ’ s Market will be held every Saturday May 4 through October 26, except September 14 and 21.
Gordonsville Farmer ’ s Market: Every Saturday through November
BLM Bull & Rodeo Company is the producer of some of Virginia ’ s finest Professional Bull Riding events and were voted Producer of the Year in 2009 by SEBRA. Rodeos will be held every second Saturday, May - September.
Patchtoberfest: Saturday, September 21, 2024
Calling all craft beer lovers to join us for a day of music, fun and games, and celebration of community at Patch Brewing Company in Gordonsville!
Orangetoberfest: Saturday, September 28, 2024
Don ’ t miss this year ’ s Orangetoberfest with 20+ beer and cider vendors, 5 food trucks, and 2 great bands. The event will be held on September 28 from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Gordonsville Fried Chicken Festival: Saturday, October 5, 2024
The Town of Gordonsville will hold its Famous Fried Chicken Festival on Saturday, October 5, 2023 from 11 am – 5 pm at the Gordonsville Fire Company Fair Grounds. The event will feature a fried chicken and pie contest, wine garden, and numerous craft and artisan vendors.
Community/Regional Health Fair: Saturday, October 26, 2024
This annual event, now in its 23rd year, offers delicious food; free health screenings including A1c, blood pressure, hearing, etc., educational resources; and more. It will be held at Shady Grove Baptist Church on Piney Woods Road from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on October 26.
Learn more about other events at: www.visitorangevirginia.com
*Events listed on this page are not necessarily hosted, sponsored, or endorsed by Orange County.
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2024 Orange County Holiday Schedule
New Year ’ s Day - Monday, January 1 Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Monday, January 15 George Washington Day - Monday, February 19 James Madison ’ s Birthdate (Observed) - Friday, March 15 Memorial Day - Monday, May 27 Juneteenth - Wednesday, June 19 Independence Day - Thursday, July 4 Labor Day - Monday, September 2 Columbus Day & Yorktown Victory Day - Monday, October 14 Election Day - Tuesday, November 5 Veterans Day - Monday, November 11 Noon Closure for Thanksgiving - Wednesday, November 27 Thanksgiving - Thursday, November 28 Day After Thanksgiving* - Friday, November 29 *Landfill & Collection Sites Open Christmas Eve* - Tuesday, December 24 *Landfill & Collection Sites Open Until Noon Christmas Day - Wednesday, December 25 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 officially granted.
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31 years, Alisha Vines, Office on Youth
3 years, James Bolton, Development Services
25 years, James Franklin, Fire & EMS
3 years, Carrie Leistra, Treasurer
22 years, Valerie Jarrell, Commissioner of Revenue
2 years, Renee Caruso, Library
15 years, Donna Harpold, Voter Registrar
2 years, Stephen Bledsoe, FiberLync
12 years, Gina Jenkins, Animal Shelter
2 years, Kiersten Harper, Office on Youth
11 years, Teresa Colvin, Social Services
2 years, Joshua Frederick, Development Services
10 years, Sarah Altman, Sheriff ’ s Office
2 years, Glenn Hecht, Sheriff ’ s Office
10 years, Susan Crosby, Development Services
2 years, Todd Amon, FiberLync
9 years, Rosanna Zamudio, Parks & Recreation
2 years, Michael Selby, FiberLync
7 years, Robert Blakley, Development Services
2 years, Daniel Devine, Sheriff ’ s Office
7 years, Crystal Hale, Social Services
1 year, Kenneth Lickliter, Sheriff ’ s Office
6 years, Jennifer Wedding, Finance
1 year, Kevin Nicklow, Landfill
3 years, Amy Roberts, Circuit Court Clerk
1 year, Teresa Warner, Library
3 years, Kristina Farley, E - 911
1 year, Bennett Moubray, Fire & EMS
3 years, Tyler Williamson, E - 911
1 year, Trey Carter, Sheriff ’ s Office
3 years, Kristen Cook, Fire & EMS
1 year, George Madison, Landfill
3 years, Melissa Cragun, Social Services
1 year, Brandon Bunce, Public Works
3 years, Mark Salyers, Landfill
1 year, Melissa Ramsey, Victim Witness
3 years, Cody Fincham, FiberLync
1 year, Ajahane Lopez, Social Services
3 years, Loretta Horn, Library
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Administrative Assistant - Office on Youth Administrative Program Assistant I (Information Technology Support) Customer Service Coordinator
Child Care Lead Teacher - GBES Child Care Teacher Assistant - GBES Child Care Teacher Assistant - LGPS Child Care Teacher Assistant - OES
Director of Development Services Emergency Communications Officer Self - Sufficiency Specialist I/II
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Team Admin/HR Excel at Ball Guess with a Demonstration in Estimation
By: Tim Moubray, Director, Orange County Parks & Recreation Department
Greetings all, Here are your August County Cup results …
It was great to see so many folks on such a hot day. We had 80 participate in the Ball Guess, hosted at the J.U.I.C.E. Employee
Appreciation Event. For this event, participants observed several bags and stacks of assorted balls and attempted to determine the exact number. Some meticulously counted while others took a single look and made a random guess. For those interested, there were 77 bouncy balls in the coffee can, 42 baseballs in the white bucket, 39 pickleballs in the blue bag, 35 wiffleballs in the clear bag, and 31 golf bags in the hanging black bag.
With a range of guesses from 108 to 1734, the actual amount was 357. Our winner for August is Emily Welch (Team Extension) with a guess of 350 and a difference of 7. Finishing second, with a guess of 365, was Ashley Jacobs (Team Admin/HR). There was a tie for third at 15 off between Alyson Simpson (Team Admin/HR) at 372, and Bryan Seal (Team Sheriff) at 342. In the team standings, Admin/HR had four finishers in the top six to open a big lead on the field. But remember, it ’ s still anyone ’ s game to win. The County Cup is an important part of our organization ’ s Cultural Initiative, which seeks to make Orange County an employer of choice, able to recruit and retain skilled employees. Look like fun? Visit www.orangecountyva.gov/jobs to see if an open position might be right for you!
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Third Annual J.U.I.C.E. Employee Appreciation Event Promotes Workplace Culture and Teamwork
By: Orange County Communications Department
Last month, staff members from across the organization gathered at Booster Park to engage in a moment of fellowship and fun at our annual J.U.I.C.E. Employee Appreciation Event.
The event features lunch, games, and prizes, but its true value comes from bringing together as many staff members as possible. Organizations that have to work across multiple locations and at all hours, like Orange County, are susceptible to a condition known
as “ siloing. ” The term refers to feelings of isolation that can occur when members of the same team cannot regularly communicate and share ideas. Left unchecked, it results in workplace dissatisfaction and a resultant decrease in work quality. Several years ago, our Cultural Initiative was implemented to address such challenges by reinforcing our shared mission - providing high quality services to our residents - and by making Orange County a desirable employer that can recruit and retain dedicated, skilled employees.
The J.U.I.C.E. event is one important element of this effort, and attendance has grown each year since 2022. The occasion provides the opportunity for leadership to thank those that contribute to our award - winning organization, to celebrate annual achievements, and to give renewed focus (and energy) to the challenges that lay ahead.
Help Desk Survey, and Rubber Ducks, Assist IT in Maintaining a Gold Standard
By: Orange County Information Technology Department
It ’ s been a year since the IT Department implemented the help desk survey, and we have received over 550 responses! The feedback received has helped the department collect feedback and adjust to ensure we are supporting county staff successfully. In commemoration of this milestone, four lucky winners received special “ duck hunter ” certificates and a gold or silver duck. The winners were:
Most Surveys Submitted (Gold Duck) – Jen Fox
Top 2nd - 4th submitters (Silver Ducks) – Karen Gibson, Chris Cord, Dawn Herndon
Thank you to all county staff who fill out the surveys!
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INSIGHT Please subscribe to our newsletter and receive this insightful newsletter delivered to your electronic mailbox every month. In its current format, the newsletter has been published every month since October 2020! Be sure to add newsletter@orangecountyva.gov to your contacts so the newsletter is not delivered to your spam or junk folder.
Citizens Ask...
Q: I want to know more about the August Wilderness Water Treatment Plant incident. Where can I find more information.? A : A thorough recap of the incident and investigation are available on the incident webpage at www.vdh.virginia.gov/drinking - water/wilderness - water - treatment - plant - contamination. A Question & Answer section provides answers to many of the most common questions and concerns expressed by impacted residents. Results of water samples are available as well. Q: I would like to stay updated regarding what happens at Board meetings, but sometimes can ’ t attend. What can I do? A : Orange County Board of Supervisors Meetings are livestreamed during the meeting and recorded for later playback on demand. Visit the Agendas & Minutes Portal, and click on a particular meeting to find video resources. Look for “ Meeting Media ” in the upper lefthand corner.
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Upcoming Orange County Meetings
Board of Supervisors
Planning Commission
• Tuesday, September 24, 2024, 5:00 p.m. .
• Thursday, October 3, 2024, 6:00 p.m. Economic Development Authority • Wednesday, September 18, 2024, 5:30 p.m. at 109 West Main Street, Orange, VA 22960
•
Worksession scheduled at 4:00 p.m.
•
Public Comment during this Meeting
• Tuesday, October 8, 2024, 5:00 p.m.
Unless otherwise noted, listed meetings are held at: Board of Supervisors ’ Meeting Room Orange County Public Safety Building 11282 Government Center Drive, Orange, VA 22960
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. 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.
Jennifer Aylor
Get to know Orange County staff... The Personnel File:
Victim Witness Program Director
Jennifer Aylor is the Director of the Victim Witness Program in Orange County, which is a division of the Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office. The program is designed to ensure that victims and witnesses of criminal offenses receive fair and compassionate treatment throughout the judicial process. Readers may be surprised to learn that the program serves more than 800 clients per year. Clients can be victims of any crime, from trespassing to murder and anything in - between. More information is available at www.orangecountyva.gov/202/Victim - Witness - Services.
Juanesta Williams
Support Technician
While relatively new in Orange County, Jennifer has worked in the field for more than 8 years, even longer in other criminal justice disciplines. She says her favorite part of the job is “ helping victims have a voice, ” and has many memories of meeting wonderful people and seeing “ healing despite the trauma [they ’ ve] endured. ” Jennifer is dedicated to the job and the people she serves. If given a superpower, she would want to be able to “ show people a glimpse of the future past their pain. I hate to see the pain that people endure but I have seen with it can come amazing growth, compassion, and awareness. I wish that we all could get a better glimpse at the light that is at the end of the tunnel sometimes. ” When not serving victims or witness of crimes in Orange County, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, gardening, and simply being outside. She recently got married, and would like to travel to Israel someday to learn more about the history and culture there. Thank you for your service, Jennifer!
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Orange County Communications Department 112 W. Main Street P.O. Box 111 Orange, VA 22960
POSTAL CUSTOMER
Meet Buster
This handsome fellow is also known as “ Bust~A~Move ” to those near and dear to him. Why? This old man has some moves! Found as a stray, he is around 12 years of age. Buster is a lovely and sweet boy that is looking for the fairytale ending of being a spoiled house dog! He gets his nickname for the dancing and play bowing moves he shows off when he gets excited! Buster has done well with the other dogs he had met. Buster was previously neutered. He has been microchipped and updated on all vaccines including rabies. He has also started flea/tick prevention, tested for heartworm (NEGATIVE) and given heartworm preventatives.
If interested, please visit www.orangecountyva.gov/adoptapet,
and complete the online - based Pet Pre - Adoption Application.
Find your new best friend at the
Visit us on Facebook Find Adoptable Pets (540) 672 - 1124 Directions: 11362 Porter Road Orange VA 22960
Orange County Animal Shelter
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