For many, the Montpelier Races are more than sport—they’re a homecoming. Each fall, on the first Saturday in November, thousands gather at Montpelier—the former home of President James Madison—to celebrate a tradition that has endured for nearly a century. This year marks the 90th running of the Montpelier Hunt Races, one of Virginia’s most historic equestrian events. Families, neighbors, and …
Rural America is in crisis—and not just economically. We’re losing our local newspapers, our local voices, and, with them, our ability to see ourselves clearly. The truth is, when a community no longer has a local paper, it loses more than headlines. It loses connection. Accountability. A shared identity. And most of all, it loses its voice. At The Orange …
It’s two o’clock in the morning. Everyone in your house is sleeping, and thunderstorms are moving toward your area. As strong winds begin to shake the house, you realize something isn’t right. You wake your wife, grab the kids, and head to the basement—or an interior bathroom or hallway—for protection. But before you can get there, windows start breaking and …
The Fall Fiber Festival & Montpelier Sheep Dog Trials returned to Orange County on October 4–5, drawing makers, shepherds, and families to the rolling fields across from James Madison’s Montpelier. The two-day celebration highlighted every step of the fiber journey—sheep to shawl—while showcasing the festival’s signature competitive sheep dog trials. Visitors found an immersive schedule: continuous craft demonstrations in spinning, …
On Saturday, October 11, Short Street in Orange came alive with the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors of Orange’s inaugural Tapestry Festival. From 3 to 7 p.m., the block was transformed into a walkable celebration of community heritage—part street fair, part concert, and entirely unforgettable. Families, friends, and curious newcomers gathered to experience a rich mosaic of cultures woven together …
High school sports play a critical role in students’ development, providing opportunities for physical activity, teamwork, and personal growth. A key component in expediting these experiences is the sports facilities available to students. These facilities not only support athletic programs but also serve as vital hubs for the entire school community. These facilities are crucial, if not paramount, not only …
The Virginia Department of Historic Resources (VDHR) has awarded a $195,925 grant to the Friends of Wilderness Battlefield (FOWB) to support the purchase, preservation, and interpretation of a significant portion of the 1863 Mine Run Battlefield, known as the Randolph Artillery Tract, in Orange County. The grant marks a major step toward protecting an important chapter of Orange County’s Civil …
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 …
Not all heroes wear capes — some wear headsets and take off from small local runways. Kley Parkhurst, a Lake of the Woods resident, uses his passion for flight to lift others — transporting patients to care and animals to safety, changing lives one mission at a time. Parkhurst began community benefit flying in 2021 and has been unstoppable ever …
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 …