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
Winter Weather Safety Pages 7 - 8
Youth Council Cleans Up Tobacco Litter Page 9
Deck the Paws Fundraiser Recap Page 13
January 2025
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Team Orange,
do some financial planning, or joining a recreational league to satisfy a passion for activities outside of work. When we support you as a “ whole person ” we know this will help employees to bring their very best to the workplace. My favorite part about a new year is the budget! You may think I ’ m crazy for saying this, but for me it is a chance to reflect on how we do things, what is working, what needs adjusting, and what we plan to do next year. Call me a budget nerd if you must, but it is a great time for public leaders to really dig into what makes our organization ’ s tick. Whatever you do with your new year, I know we will all be striving toward a great 2025 for the residents and businesses of Orange County.
With a brand - new year, thoughts often turn to what the future brings for each of
us, in our personal lives and in our careers. In this issue we feature some examples of OC colleagues who set a goal for personal development and achieved it. Is this a good time for you to set a goal for your own personal or professional development? If you have career aspirations, talk to your supervisor or a member of the HR team about how Orange County can help you realize your goals. We have a number of training and educational options to consider. We believe that by investing in your talents and skills, we will build a stronger work team that is better prepared to deliver excellent service to our citizens. When considering personal goals, don ’ t forget about our new Lifestyle Spending Account options. This could be a way to pay for new health or fitness equipment, adopt a furry friend from the shelter, learning a new skill or hobby,
Ted Voorhees,
Orange County Administrator
We ’ re Here For You
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Orange County Administration
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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Fax: (540) 672 - 1679
newsletter@orangecountyva.gov
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Cover Photo: Indi, an adoptable dog at the Orange County Animal Shelter, plays in the snow. See back cover for more information.
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Staff Refine Skills Through Continuing Education in 2024
By: Orange County Communications Department
Last year, many Orange County employees worked to refine their professional skills through a variety of academic and career programs. By pursuing degrees, accreditations, and continuing education opportunities, they have worked to ensure they are well - versed in industry best practices and are ready to apply those for the benefit of our residents. We are proud of their dedication and accomplishments!
Glenda (Bradley) Paul, MPA, Deputy County Administrator
Master of Public Administration, Virginia Polytechnical Institute and State University
A culmination of her lifelong career in public service, the degree recognizes high proficiency in overall administration of public sector organizations, such as Orange County. One of Glenda ’ s academic research projects led to the creation of Orange County ’ s internal Office of Real Estate Assessment using a technology - focused approach enabling a lower staffing model than traditional departments.
Stephanie Straub, Assistant County Administrator for Operations
Virginia Women ’ s Municipal Leadership Institute, Virginia Polytechnical Institute and State University The Institute provides women in local government with the connections and tools to further develop their skills, strengthening the pipeline for women to lead communities in Virginia and beyond. The Institute is designed to each tangible and transformational leadership skills to increase self - confidence, knowledge, and ability, provide connection and content to strengthen leadership skills, create an everlasting support network among participants, past and present, and build the pipeline of women leading government in Virginia.
Alisha Vines, Office on Youth Director; Jenny Carpenter, Human Resources Director; Ashley Jacobs, Management Analyst LEAD: Leading, Educating and Developing, University of Virginia, Virginia Institute of Government, Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service Connection is at the heart of who we are as people and leaders, and the landscape of public service is ever changing. Some examples of challenges recognized by LEAD include: local governments are continuously being asked to do more with less, federal and state support is declining, citizens are demanding a more caring
and responsive government, and new technology is revolutionizing communication. To help local leaders respond to this environment, LEAD is a dynamic, weeklong deep dive into the principles and practice of public service with an emphasis on the skills needed for building and maintaining relationships.
Carrie Leistra, Deputy Treasurer
Master Governmental Deputy Treasurer, Treasurer ’ s Association with the University of Virginia Weldon Cooper Center for Public Service and School of Continuing Professional Studies Local government finance, like many other professions, requires special study, knowledge and skills, and the constituency served deserve a high level of professional competence. This Certification Program sets forth the regulations and standards that recognize such professional attainment.
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Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office Opens Registration for Citizens ’ Police Academy By: Orange County Communications Department and the Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office The Sheriff ’ s Office is again offering its popular Citizens ’ Police Academy Program. Registration is now open, and the program will begin in March. Applications are due March 3. The Citizens ’ Police Academy is a program designed to build positive community relationships between the Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office and the citizens of Orange County by educating the community on the operations of the Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office and dispelling any misconceptions about law enforcement in Orange County. The 10 - week (3 - hour evening sessions 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Mondays of each week) program is provided at no charge and is open to Orange County residents over the age of 18, Orange County business owners, and people employed within Orange County. Most classes will be held at the Orange County Public Safety Building, but some will be held throughout the county. Some of the planned activities for participants include: a tour of the Sheriff ’ s Office, sessions focused on the various Office functions (such as Patrol, Investigations, Victim Witness, Animal Control, etc.), a range day with concealed carry training, a session on the Virtra Training Simulator, a tour of the Central Virginia Regional Jail, and more! To register, please complete the Citizens ’ Police Academy Overview and Application Document and return it to Sarah Altman at altmans@orangecountyva.gov.
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Orange County Triad Program Hosts 2nd Annual Sporting Clay Fun Shoot
Adapted from an Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office Facebook post
The Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office Triad program held its 2nd Annual Sporting Clay Fun Shoot fundraiser at Central Virginia Sporting Clays this fall. Sporting clays simulate the flushing of prey from trees and bushes, as a
We appreciate the support of the following sponsors: • Culpeper Home Medical • Site Tech Co., Inc. • Piedmont Power • Pierce Heating & AC Co. • Friends of Triad • BidWilson Online Auction • Battlefield Firearms •
Friends of Phillip Scott, Virginia Delegate
hunter would naturally encounter them. Aligning with hunting season, this annual event is typically held in the fall. Triad reaches out to local businesses to ask them to sponsor the event. This year ’ s fundraiser was a success thanks to our many sponsors, and all the participants. Proceeds from this fundraiser will be used to purchase Guardian Alert Pendants, Project Lifesaver transmitters, and to support Senior Citizen Crime Prevention and Safety programs. Learn more about Triad programs on the Orange County website.
Woodbrook Farm Vineyard
•
Orange Tire, Inc.
•
Altman Tire
•
Crown Auto Sales
•
If you know anyone in Orange County who can benefit from the services the Orange Triad program provides, or if you need more information about Triad or would like to become a sponsor for our 2025 event, please reach out to Deputy Ron Kesner at (540) 672 - 1536.
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Missed Paying Your Tax Bills? Don ’ t Delay! Contact the Treasurer ’ s Office to Establish a Payment Plan
By: Orange County Communications Department
EXAMPLE FOR ILLUSTRATION ONLY * Amounts Rounded
Bills for personal property and the second half of real estate taxes were mailed in September, and payments for those bills were due December 5, 2024. Those that missed the deadline should be aware that unpaid bills are now considered late and will be assessed a 10% penalty on the balance. Notices regarding delinquent bills have been mailed. While it is best to pay before the due date, it is important to promptly resolve unpaid bills to avoid further penalties. Interest is applied to a year ’ s unpaid bills beginning in January, and will reach 10% annually. By completing payment on those bills as soon as possible, those with
Amount Added:
Total Amount:
Original Bill Amount
$1,000
+ Late Penalty (10%)
$100
$1,100
+ Interest (10% applied to balance and initial late penalty), accrues monthly +Administrative Collection Fee (applied Feb. 1)
$9.17 monthly
$1,109.17 after first month
$25
$1,134.17
Total after 12 months
$1,235
outstanding tax balances can minimize the accrual of that interest and avoid the $25 administrative collection fee which begins in February. See the example for a demonstration of how taking care of unpaid bills quickly can reduce the impact of penalties. Furthermore, bills that remain unpaid may be turned over to collections or face other consequences such as liens or DMV stops. Those that have outstanding tax bills are encouraged to contact the Treasurer ’ s Office at (540) 672 - 2656. The Office can set up a payment plan to help ease the burden of catching up unpaid balances. A payment plan can also prevent some collection actions which can add additional fees to the unpaid tax bill. Want to avoid the lump sum impact of tax bills? Remember that tax prepayments are accepted. Prepaying can help spread the cost over a longer timeframe. Contact the Treasurer ’ s Office for details.
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Orange County Responds to Winter Storm Blair
By: Orange County Communications Department, Photographs from Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office Facebook Page
Orange County experienced its first full - scale winter weather of the season earlier this month. For some (like students enjoying an extended winter break) this storm was a cause for celebration. For others, it was a cause for concern. For Orange County first responders, it was another day at the office, but with a few extra considerations. The Governor declared a state of emergency on Friday, January 3, foreseeing widespread impacts across the
Commonwealth. Officials declared a local state of emergency for Orange County as the storm approached on Sunday, January 5. Along with that declaration, a virtual Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was opened to coordinate the response. An EOC opened virtually functions very much like one opened physically, but allows some staff to remain off of the roads to avoid increasing unnecessary traffic. The weather was regularly monitored, with Sheriff ’ s Office Deputies and Fire & EMS staff making regular reports about road conditions and responding to any incidents. Information about preparedness and winter weather safety began flowing well before the storm began. These notices and posts helped ensure residents were aware and ready for the incoming snow. Throughout the storm, updates were posted across several social media channels. Thankfully, Winter Storm Blair did not result in widespread power outages, but the lingering cold temperatures meant hazardous road conditions remained longer than usual. Despite the passing of Winter Storm Blair, there is still plenty of winter remaining. Want to stay in the loop with Orange County resources and updates? Subscribe to the “ County News & Press Releases ” list online at www.orangecountyva.gov/notifyme. Next, be sure to follow the social media channels listed below:
County of Orange Fire & EMS Facebook page: www.facebook.com/countyoforangefireandems
Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ocsheriffva
Orange County Local Government Facebook page: www.facebook.com/orangecountyva
Orange County E - 911 Center Facebook page: www.facebook.com/orangecountye911
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Youth Council Cleans Up & Recycles Tobacco Waste in Town of Gordonsville
By: Orange County Communications Department
On December 20, members of the Orange County Youth Council, along with staff from the Office on Youth and members of the Orange Healthy Community Action Team (HCAT), took to the streets of Gordonsville to clean up tobacco litter such as cigarette butts, packaging, and vape pens. Based on weight, it is estimated that more than 4,080 cigarette butts were collected! Five bags of non - tobacco litter were removed as well. Thanks to the dedication of Youth Council members, these cleanups have become annual events held in the towns of Orange (spring/summer) and Gordonsville (fall/winter).
Cigarette butts are the most littered item in world. Despite their cotton - like appearance, they are nonbiodegradable and are mostly made up of plastic fibers. They leach toxic chemicals, such as arsenic and lead, into the environment. Since tobacco use is harmful to both the user and the ecosystem, the Youth Council is also dedicated to being peer advocates for the prevention of youth tobacco use. With funding assistance from the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth (VFHY), the Orange County Office on Youth has been able to assist the Youth Council in these efforts. The most recent event went a step further than prior cleanups. Rather than simply collecting and disposing of the tobacco waste, organizers submitted the items for recycling through the Cigarette Waste Free Recycling program offered by TerraCycle, which separates the components and creates
usable commodities from the waste. More information about the recycling program is available at: www.terracycle.com/en - US/ brigades/cigarette - waste - recycling. While this cleanup focused on alleviating the environmental impacts resulting from tobacco product use, the effort is multidimensional. Other programs, such as the Hidden in Plain Sight event in October, focused on empowering parents and caregivers with the knowledge to recognize and prevent teen substance abuse, including tobacco, before the product is used. For more information about the tobacco clean - up event, tobacco prevention programming in Orange County, or programs made possible by VFHY funding, please contact Robyn Chapman, Office on Youth Grant Program Manager, at (540) 672 - 5484, option 1, or at rchapman@orangecountyva.gov.
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NO MOTHERS, PLEASE
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Orange County Fire & EMS Quarterly Training: Elevating Excellence in Emergency Response
By: Susan Turner, Senior Administrative Assistant, County of Orange Fire & EMS Department
Orange County Fire & EMS recently held its Quarterly Training, bringing together personnel to sharpen their skills and enhance their readiness. This comprehensive day of learning featured a variety of training stations and interactive scenarios designed to ensure that first responders remain at the forefront of emergency care. One of the highlights was the behavioral scenario training conducted in collaboration with the Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office. These realistic simulations allowed participants to navigate complex situations effectively, reinforcing teamwork and communication between emergency services.
A cardiac scenario provided another crucial learning opportunity, focusing on how to address heart arrhythmias and other cardiac conditions. This vital exercise ensured that all personnel are equipped to handle
a wide range of cardiovascular emergencies.
The training day also included a lecture by Operational Medical Director Dr. Asher Brand, who introduced new sepsis treatment protocols. This training included administering antibiotics in the field, further enhancing the ability to provide timely and effective care. These updated guidelines emphasize more aggressive treatment, aligning with the latest medical advancements to improve patient outcomes. Additionally, clinical specialists from Stryker Medical Corporation, who came in from Chicago, led training on the department ’ s newly acquired LIFEPAK 35 devices. Replacing the 12 - year - old models, these state - of - the - art monitors offer enhanced functionality. Orange County is proud to be one of the few jurisdictions in the region to utilize this advanced technology, further solidifying its commitment to providing top - tier care.
Participants were also treated to a special presentation by Senior Troopers Gremillion and Lewis, who brought their canines, Hawk and Bandit. Deputy Amos also joined the session with his canine, Kyro, who is currently in training. These demonstrations showcased the critical roles that canines play in law enforcement and emergency response, highlighting their skills in detection and support.
To conclude the day, staff participated in a timed challenge, reinforcing the skills learned throughout the training. This hands - on exercise tested their knowledge and
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teamwork under pressure, ensuring they are prepared for real - world emergencies. By incorporating cutting - edge technology, evidence - based medical practices, and collaborative scenarios, the Quarterly Training exemplifies Orange County Fire & EMS ’ dedication to professional excellence and community safety. Orange County Fire & EMS remains on the cutting edge of emergency response, continuously seeking innovations that enhance service delivery and public safety.
This day could not have happened without the tremendous contributions of several individuals and teams. Instructors Bruce Ruggeri, Lindsey Ewing, and Dr. Asher Brand played a vital role in leading the various training
sessions, while special guests, including Orange County Sheriff Jason Smith, Sgt. Shannon Dickson, Trooper Ewing, Senior Trooper Gremillion, and Senior Trooper Lewis, with the Virginia State Police Department, enriched the experience with their unique demonstrations and perspectives. Training Captain Mark Sikora ’ s hard work in creating and organizing the quarterly training was also crucial to its success. The dedication of the COFEMS staff, who spent their day off to participate and continue enhancing their skills, was vital to the success of the training and is truly appreciated.
Stay Tuned for Orange HCAT ’ s Wellness Wednesday Tips
By: Orange County Communications Department
To help start 2025 off on the right foot, the Orange Healthy Community Action Team (HCAT) ’ s Wellness Wednesday tips have returned this month. Follow their Facebook and Instagram pages for weekly tips to form lasting healthy habits! Some examples are listed below. Have a New Year ’ s Resolution to stop using nicotine products? The EX Program can help both you and your teen to stop together. Nicotine can amplify feelings of anxiety, stress and depression. Youth (age 13 and up) as well as adults can begin their anonymous quitting journey now by simply texting VAPEFREEOC to 88709. The new EX Program encompasses all forms of nicotine. It ’ s important to eat the rainbow in the cold winter months. You can ensure you do so by making items such as: a vegetable salad, stuffed peppers, corn and carrot salad, beef and pepper stir fry to name a few. Take a peak at our website for yummy recipes. Have you heard the news? Truth Initiative ’ s Vaping Program has extended to all forms of nicotine, as well as no age limit. The EX Program can help both you and your teen to stop together. Nicotine can amplify feelings of anxiety, stress and depression. Youth (age 13 and up) as well as adults can begin their anonymous quitting journey now by simply texting VAPEFREEOC to 88709. The new EX Program encompasses all forms of nicotine!
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Deck the Paws Delights Pets Again!
By: Orange County Communications Department
Beginning on Giving Tuesday, December 3, the Orange County Animal Shelter launched its “ Deck the Paws ” campaign. This event provides an opportunity for generous community members to support the cats and dogs currently in the care of the Orange County Animal Shelter. Historically, the fundraiser has received great support during the season of giving, and this year was no different. Deck the Paws offers three primary ways to help the pets at the shelter. The first is a monetary donation, which provides funds to purchase stockings and fill them with purrrfect goodies like treats, toys, etc. Funds raised beyond that needed for stockings supports the emergency vet fund. Since our animals receive full veterinary care (beyond the standard vaccinations and spaying or neutering), this fund is especially important when assisting an injured animal on the way to recovery and adoption. Thanks to the generous support of animal lovers near and far, this year ’ s monetary donations totaled $7,534.05!
Organizers of this fundraiser know that some prefer to give an in - kind gift; with that in mind, the second main focus of the Deck the Paws is collecting food donations. During the previous year ’ s campaign, we began with a goal of 1,000 pounds. That goal was quickly surpassed within a few short days, and ultimately more than 4,000 pounds were collected. However, this year set the bar even higher. Beginning with an increased 1,500 pound goal, generous donors helped us collect more than 5,000 pounds of dog and cat food! The third branch of the campaign encourages the purchase of wish - list items from the Amazon wish list curated by the Friends of the Orange County Animal Shelter. This convenient list makes it easy for donors to know exactly what kinds
of items would be useful for the shelter. The support received this year was amazing, which included hundreds of items like toys, baby wipes, treats, and other supplies. Dog Krazy of Fredericksburg contributed 40 filled stockings for dogs and 25 filled stockings for cats! The success of this campaign and the generosity of Orange County was felt by everyone at the shelter, and will continue to be felt by the pets in their care in the weeks and months to come. “ We are so very grateful for the wonderful support we have received for this fundraiser, we are very blessed with an amazing community! ” said Gina Jenkins, Director of the Orange County Animal Shelter. Even with the great turnout during this season of giving, its important to remember that animals keep eating all year long, and emergency vet expenses can come at any time. With that in mind, donations are accepted year - round to support the mission of the Orange County Animal Shelter. Those interested can make an online donation at www.orangecountyva.gov/shelterdonation, or make an in - person donation at the Shelter or Treasurer ’ s Office. Don ’ t forget, the best gift you can give one of our animals is a home! If your family is interested in adding a four - legged friend to your lives, visit www.orangecountyva.gov/adoptapet to get started.
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Gingerbread House Contest is Sweet Fun!
By: Orange County Communications Department
Last month, Orange County Parks & Recreation hosted its annual Gingerbread House Contest. Now in its eighth year, the event received greater participation than ever before! Fourteen gingerbread houses were entered and on display at the Arts Center in Orange, ranging from chicken coops to train stations. In fact, the gallery of sweet structures became even more impressive when a couple of additional structures mysteriously appeared during the contest. While extremely impressive, those structures unfortunately couldn ’ t be eligible for the contest since no entry information had been received. Regardless, they certainly added a dash of magic to this year ’ s display.
Entries were on display for voting Saturday, December 7 through Monday, December 20. During that time, more than 212 ballots were received! While first, second, and third places were decided by our official judges, the “ People ’ s Choice ” award was determined by the total number of votes received.
This year, the judges and the visiting public agreed, and Entry #10, “ We Love OC! ”, submitted by the Pitera family earned both top honors. This depiction of the historic Orange Train Depot (also home to the Orange County Visitor Center) steamed ahead of the competition by capturing more than 27% of the votes. The Pitera family has established something of a dynasty in our gingerbread house contest. They ’ ve secured five wins in a row (each year since 2020) thanks to their ever - impressive builds which often showcase Orange County landmarks! Second place was earned by the Jolly Krispie Elves League ’ s (revealed to be a team name based on the first initials of the assembly team: Jeremy Owens, Kaci Daniel, Esma Owens, and Layla Owens) “ Up on the Hill ” entry. This entry showcased a beloved family home “ full of people, animals, [and] memories. ” Third place was earned by Ashton Wolfrey's "Holiday Coop." The adorable nature of this entry (especially its gum drop chickens) also earned it the “ Cutest ” superlative award and a special place in the minds of voters. In fact, this entry received the second - most votes for the “ People ’ s Choice ” award.
Finally, the “ Funniest ” superlative was awarded to Abagail Wolfrey ’ s “ Yellowstone Barn. ” We appreciate the support of the Arts Center in Orange and Krecek Kakes to help make this event possible. We look forward to 2025!
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Help Orange County ’ s Visitors in 2025!
By: Orange County Communications Department
Did you know the Orange County Visitor Center, housed in the historic Orange Train Depot, is primarily staffed by volunteers? Volunteer Travel Counselors help support our local economy and provide an initial example of Orange County hospitality to tourists. Volunteers simply need a desire to help, a positive attitude, a love of Orange County, and a few spare hours each month. Scheduling is flexible, and can be arranged to avoid conflicts with other commitments. Some volunteers choose to be scheduled on a regular shift, while others fill in as substitutes when needed. Experience is not necessary. While helping others discover our attractions, volunteers themselves learn a great deal about our beautiful county. Many learn new tidbits of historical information, find a new favorite vintage of wine, or discover a unique shop they hadn ’ t noticed before. As a thank you for their service, our Travel Counselors enjoy regular familiarization trips, events, and delectable appreciation luncheons. Interested? Simply reach out to the Economic Development and Tourism Office at (540) 672 - 1238 to get started.
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2025 Orange County Holiday Schedule
New Year's Day - Wednesday, January 1, 2025 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - Monday, January 20, 2025 George Washington Day - Monday, February 17, 2025 James Madison's Birthdate ( observed ) - Monday, March 17, 2025 Memorial Day - Monday, May 26, 2025 Juneteenth - Thursday, June 19, 2025 Independence Day - Friday, July 4, 2025 Labor Day - Monday, September 1, 2025 Columbus Day & Yorktown Victory Day - Monday, October 13, 2025 Election Day - Tuesday, November 4, 2025 Veterans Day - Tuesday, November 11, 2025 Noon Closure for Thanksgiving - Wednesday, November 26, 2025 Thanksgiving - Thursday, November 27, 2025 Day After Thanksgiving* - Friday, November 28, 2025 *Landfill & Collection Sites Open Noon Closure for Christmas Eve* - Wednesday, December 24, 2025 Christmas - Thursday, December 25, 2025 Day After Christmas* - Friday, December 26, 2025 *Landfill & Collection Sites Open 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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25 years, April Clark, Fire & EMS
3 years, Joseph Freeze, Public Works
25 years, Nelson Seale, Fire & EMS
3 years, Brian Keys, Public Works
21 years, Tammy Corbin, Commonwealth ’ s Attorney
3 years, Ashley Lilly, Fire & EMS
21 years, Jason Smith, Sheriff ’ s Office
3 years, Kalina Moore, Social Services
19 years, Carol Wold, Library
3 years, Julie Perry, Economic Development & Tourism
16 years, Bryan Seal, Sheriff ’ s Office
3 years, Anna Shultz, E - 911
15 years, Larry Clement, Information Technology
3 years, Charles Waddle, Fire & EMS
15 years, Shannon Dickson, Sheriff ’ s Office
2 years, Jamie Bates, Animal Shelter
14 years, Patricia Keister, Library
2 years, Jennifer McGuire, Human Resources
13 years, Kristie Hicks, Social Services
2 years, Ada Vanderhoof, Animal Shelter
9 years, Stephen Boyer, Parks & Recreation
1 year, Crystal Atwood, Commonwealth ’ s Attorney
8 years, Walter Orzechowski, Landfill
7 years, Kimberly Downin, Social Services
1 year, Jacob Deloriea, Parks & Recreation
7 years Russel Henderson, Commonwealth ’ s Attorney
1 year, Gregory Herring, Public Works
6 years, Josh Frederick, Development Services
1 year, Samuel “ Page ” Higginbotham, Commonwealth ’ s Attorney
6 years, Stephen Haney, Public Works
5 years, Stephen Coyle, Sheriff ’ s Office
1 year, Wayne Jones, Landfill
5 years, Lindsey Schienschang, Fire & EMS
1 year, Lisa Richards, Commonwealth ’ s Attorney
4 years, Brennan Tanner, Library
1 year, Jerry Settle, Landfill
3 years, Evan Baker, Sheriff ’ s Office
1 year, Jeffrey Sparks, Airport
3 years, Bayleigh Carpenter - Smith, E - 911
1 year, Kathryn West, Library
3 years, Patrick Cobb, Fire & EMS
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Benefits Programs Specialist I/II Child Care Site Manager - LGPS Deputy Sheriff Emergency Communications Officer Family Services Specialist I/II - Foster Care Family Services Specialist I/II - In Home Practice FiberLync Installation Technician Finance Director Firefighter/EMT Firefighter/Medic Senior Assistant/Assistant County Attorney
Administrative Assistant - Commissioner of the Revenue Child Care Lead Teacher - GBES Child Care Lead Teacher - LGPS Child Care Teacher - GBES Child Care Teacher Assistance - GBES Child Care Teacher Assistant - OES Deputy Treasurer I Landfill Scale Operator Opioid Response Program Coordinator
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‘ JOE ’ pardy Shakes Up Standings Yet Again, Crowns Sheriff ’ s Office as 2024 County Cup Champions!
By: Tim Moubray, Director, Orange County Parks & Recreation Department
Welcome to the new year and new competitions! But, before we begin that, it ’ s time to announce our 2024 winner! The December contest was, once again, “ JOEpardy, with your host, Joe Falin. ” This year, however, the questions weren ’ t holiday - themed, but rather included a variety of topics to test our competitor ’ s knowledge. Teams were given the option of three different boards to choose from, all with different categories. The strategies chosen were quite different from team to team. With 10 questions, some chose to find two in which they were confident, to attempt a sweep. Others chose a board intending to get the most high - point questions right. It worked for some … not so much for others. After 12 grueling months of competition, Team Sheriff (Jason Smith, Bryan Seal, Mike Lacasse, and Valenica Bowman), gave the correct answer on a high - value “ daily double ” for their final question, slingshoting them into first and crowning their team as our 2024 OC County Cup Champion! The Ops Team gave a valiant effort to defend their title but came up just a little short to finish second. Team Admin/HR rounded out our top three. The entire Final Leaderboard is available on the next page. We ’ d like to thank everyone who participated this year. There were 669 total game participants, made up of 205 unique individuals. Pretty cool.
We will host the County Cup again in 2025, but with some adjustments. Rather than monthly contests, five to six events will be spaced throughout the year, culminating once again in “ JOEpardy, with your host, Joe Falin ”. Contests will be held in conjunction with some HR events to allow more folks to participate. The first event for this year will be in mid to late February, followed by March Madness, which will run mid - March through the first week of April. Here ’ s your February hint …. In February 2023, we had a Candy Heart count guessing game. In 2024, we were Procuring Presidents in the money machine. This year ’ s contest will feature counting, guessing, and Presidents. That ’ s all for now... The County Cup is an important part of our organization ’ s Cultural Initiative. It seeks to promote teamwork while making joyful connections across departments to help make Orange County an employer of choice that is 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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Above: Tim Moubray, Parks & Recreation Director, Reviews all of the excitement that concluded this year ’ s County Cup. Watch the YouTube video for the full recap!
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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 ’ m worried about my elderly parent living alone. Are there programs to help?
A : Yes! Orange County Triad offers a number of programs to help seniors live more comfortably (and safely) at home. Some relevant programs include the File of Life, Guardian Alert Pendants, Emergency Wristband IDs, Emergency Responder Lockboxes, and more! Learn more at www.orangecountyva.gov/triad or email Deputy Kesner at rkesner@orangecountyva.gov. Q: I ’ d like to volunteer to help my community. What can I do to help? A : There are many volunteer opportunities available with Orange County as well as with local private charities and non - profits. Two potential options in this newsletter issue include volunteer fire service (page 17) and becoming a Volunteer Travel Counselor (page 19).
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Upcoming Orange County Meetings
Board of Supervisors
Planning Commission
• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 5:00 p.m.
• Thursday, February 6, 2025; 6:00 p.m. Economic Development Authority • Wednesday, February 19, 2025; 5:30 p.m. at 109 West Main Street, Orange, VA 22960
• Tuesday, February 11, 2025, 5:00 p.m.
Worksessions may be scheduled in advance of these meetings. Please check the Agendas & Minutes Portal for up - to - date details as the meeting dates approach.
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.
Ron Kesner
Get to know Orange County staff... The Personnel File:
Deputy & Triad Coordinator
Deputy Ron Kesner currently serves as the Triad Coordinator for the Orange County Sheriff ’ s Office. He has an impressive background, having continuously served in law enforcement for 43 years! His prior roles have included the Albemarle County Police Department ’ s Bicycle patrol and the Marine Patrol for Louisa County, among others. When asked what he likes most about police work, Ron said he appreciates that law enforcement allows both “ routine and not routine ” activities everyday.
Juanesta Williams
Support Technician
His amazing record only makes it more meaningful when he says that serving in his current role has brought him “ the most joy and satisfaction. ” For those unfamiliar, Triad is an initiative of the Sheriff ’ s Office that aims to proactively support our seniors and help prevent their becoming victims of crime. It ’ s programs include the File of Life, Project Lifesaver, Guardian Alert, and many more. In addition to Deputy Kesner, the initiative is supported by a great team of 22 volunteers, community organizations, and fellow staff. Ron took the role in 2019, and has been amazed and moved by what the Triad program can do for a community. Deputy Kesner is an instrumented - rated private pilot, and enjoys flying his Piper PA - 32 during his free time. He has even applied this interest to the Project Lifesaver program, by flying his aircraft with a receiver during simulated searches for missing persons. He also enjoys fishing, playing tennis, and bicycling. If he could have any superpower, he said he ’ d like to be “ impervious to injury, ” after all, he can already fly, and being able to avoid getting hurt would let him play more tennis! Thanks, Deputy Kesner!
Page 34 | January 2025
Orange County Communications Department 112 W. Main Street P.O. Box 111 Orange, VA 22960
POSTAL CUSTOMER
Meet Indi Indi is a shy but sweet two - year - old Pit Bull/ Siberian Husky mix who was surrendered along with her sister Tivi. Indi has lived most of her adult life as an outside kennel dog; she will need a patient and loving family to give her guidance and boundaries as she settles into inside life. Indi is friendly and affectionate, with lots of love to give! She has lots of energy and is very playful, smart, and brave. Curious about the world around her, she loves to explore new places and smells. Indi can be independent and enjoys some alone time; she is shy around new people and in new situations. A little extra love will help her come out of her shell. Indi was said to be a bit bossy with her sister, so we will need to make sure she meets any and all dogs she will be living with. Indi cannot go to a home that has cats or chickens; she is not good around them! Indi has been spayed, has been brought up to date on her vaccines. She has been microchipped, heartworm tested, and has had flea/tick prevention started.
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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