County Program Launches Outdoor Adventure Series

Judi CooperIssue 6

Ever dreamed of crawling through subterranean caverns, scaling a cliff face to take in the view from the top, or learning how to live more confidently outdoors? Maybe you are not quite that adventurous but still want to explore the natural beauty of Central Virginia in a hands on way. Whatever your experience level, Orange County Parks and Recreation has …

Clearwater Fire Grill Remains a Steady Presence in Locust Grove

Judi CooperIssue 6

Sponsored by Clearwater Grill One of Locust Grove’s most familiar restaurants is Clearwater Fire Grill & Catering, known locally as Clearwater or simply The Grill. Located on the eastbound side of Germanna Highway, it has become a regular meeting place for weeknight dinners, Sunday brunch, and special occasions. Over the years, it has built a reputation for reliable food, attentive …

Coopers Cookin’ & Catering Connects Orange to a Reconstruction Era Food Tradition

Judi CooperFeatured, Issue 6

Newly relocated at 141 Caroline Street in Orange, Coopers Cookin’ & Catering serves Southern staples rooted in a family history that reaches back to the post Civil War period. The restaurant’s story begins with the waiter carriers of nearby Gordonsville, a group of skilled African American cooks and servers who built respected catering businesses during Reconstruction. After emancipation, many newly …

New Police Chief, New Town Manager Mark a Shift in Orange Leadership

Judi CooperFeatured, Issue 6

The Town of Orange opened 2026 with a series of major leadership changes, headlined by the appointment of Rebecca Davis Nelson as Chief of Police—the first woman to lead the department in its history. Then Interim Town Manager Chris Snider, now officially promoted to Town Manager, announced the appointment in early January, praising Nelson’s decades of service and steady rise …

Airport Expansion Marks Major Infrastructure Investment in Orange County

Judi CooperIssue 4, Spotlight, The Orange County Voice

Orange County’s airport expansion is part of a broader, federally funded push to strengthen aviation infrastructure across Virginia; an effort aimed at meeting growing demand for general aviation statewide. County officials and community members gathered December 2nd to mark the opening of a new T-hangar at the Orange County Airport, a project supported by federal infrastructure dollars and designed to …

History Comes to Life at Payne’s Farm

Judi CooperIssue 3, The Orange County Voice

Local reenactors and preservationists brought Civil War history to life at Payne’s Farm, commemorating the 162nd anniversary of the Mine Run Campaign with a living history event that drew crowds and heartfelt connections. On November 1–2, 2025, Historical Impressions, Inc. and the Friends of Wilderness Battlefield (FoWB) hosted a living history program at Payne’s Farm in Orange County, Virginia, the …

Outpouring of Community Support in Preserving Shared History for the James Madison Museum [Sponsored]

Judi CooperFeatured, Issue 3, The Orange County Voice

The James Madison Museum of Orange County Heritage is stepping into a new era filled with energy, community spirit and exciting milestones. Under the guidance of Executive Director Shannah Mort and a revitalized Board of Directors, the museum is embracing growth while staying true to its roots. This fall, with new board members bringing fresh ideas and renewed commitment, the …

Memorial Golf Tournament Raises Over $20,000 for First Responders and Future Artists

Judi CooperIssue 2, The Orange County Voice

Locust Grove, VA — The greens were alive with purpose and community spirit as the DLW Memorial Golf Tournament, organized by Brave Hearts & Bright Futures, teed off to resounding success. Held in honor of Donnie Wedding, a beloved firefighter, drummer, and artist, the event brought together supporters from across the region to raise funds for causes close to his …

Seven Ways to Give Back Locally This Holiday Season

Judi CooperIssue 2, The Orange County Voice

The holidays are a time for joy, reflection, and generosity, and Orange County offers many meaningful ways to help neighbors in need. Whether you’re able to donate toys, food, clothing, funds, or a few hours of your time, local groups are working to ensure no one is left behind. Orange County Children’s Toy Box has brightened Christmas morning for local …

Local Elections are November 4: Meet the Candidates

Judi CooperAll Articles, Featured, Issue 1, The Orange County Voice

Orange County voters will head to the polls on Tuesday, November 4, to choose new leaders for the Board of Supervisors and the School Board. With the exception of District 4 incumbent Crystal Hale, every candidate running this cycle is new to local office, offering residents a fresh slate of voices and perspectives. To help voters make informed choices, we …