Hey, Orange County! Spring is continuing to blossom all around our beautiful county.
Easter and Passover are right around the corner, and with them come “spring breaks.” Some are built into the school calendar, and some are just taken by folks from work or life. It’s a great time of year to reset or refresh! Whether you get away for the break, do some spring cleaning, or have a relaxing staycation right here in Orange County, I hope you enjoy every minute of it.
If you’re sticking around, be sure to check out some of the terrific offerings right here. We’ve got great parks, museums, restaurants, and other venues, and there’s always the Heritage Trail for a walk, jog, or bike ride!
March ended with a busy week. Here’s a recap of a few of the events that happened.
I had the privilege of spending a truly memorable day with some of the bravest individuals in Orange County at the National Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day ceremony in Cornwall. As I stood among veterans and their families, I was moved by the sight of carnations floating on the water, each symbolizing a life lost and a hero remembered. It was an honor to speak at such a meaningful event, paying tribute to those who served and sacrificed so much for our country.
I was glad to attend the Office for the Aging’s Big Wheels Deliver Meals program luncheon last week. I joined Middletown Mayor Joe DeStefano and other elected officials to witness firsthand the incredible effect that volunteers are having on the lives of our seniors. The room was filled with warmth and gratitude as people gathered to celebrate volunteerism and community.
A special thanks to Danielle Diana-Smith and her dedicated team at the Office for the Aging for organizing such a wonderful event, which highlighted the power of compassion and service. It was a day that reminded me of the strength and heart that define Orange County.
Last week, I was also honored to sign the official Intergovernmental Support Agreement between Orange County Emergency Services and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, a significant step forward in our partnership for fire and EMS dispatch services through 911. This agreement has been years in the making, and seeing it come to fruition was a wonderful accomplishment. The signing ceremony took place at the West Point Fire Department Station 1, where I was joined by West Point Garrison Commander Col. Travis Robison.
As we put pen to paper, I thought about how this collaboration will enhance the vital services that we provide to our community, ensuring a stronger, more efficient response in times of need. This is not just a milestone for the county; it also reinforces the continued support and cooperation between our local emergency services. Thank you to our partners at West Point and our Emergency Management office who worked hard to make this happen.
We celebrated the retirements from county government of two individuals whose dedication left a mark on our community. Deb Schweikart, who spent 25 years answering the call as a public safety dispatcher for Orange County NY Fire Calls–911, and Michael Warnon, who devoted 36 years to the Department of Information Technology, are both retiring after decades of exceptional service.
As I chatted with them about their long careers, I thought of the countless people they’ve touched. Deb’s voice was often the first one people heard in moments of crisis, offering calm direction and assistance when it was needed most. Michael, behind the scenes, kept our technology running smoothly, ensuring that the systems we rely on were always there when we needed them. I wish them both the very best in retirement!
To culminate the week, I was humbled and honored to be named this year’s Champion of the Chamber by the Orange County Chamber of Commerce at its 2025 Chamber Choice Gala this past weekend.
A heartfelt thank you to the chamber for this recognition; it truly means a great deal.
I also want to extend my congratulations to the other remarkable honorees: Healey Brothers Automotive Group, Regional Food Bank Hudson Valley, and Cosmetic Confidence Medspa and Wellness Center. Your hard work continues to strengthen the fabric of our community, and I am excited to work alongside all of you as we continue to build a brighter Orange County!
Get some fresh air this week, and hopefully, I will see you “around the county”!
