Spring is, well, springing! The longer daylight hours, the blossoms poking out, and playgrounds, parks, and trails becoming busier all signal that spring is finally here. Easter and Passover are just around the corner.
I hope that you are all finding ways to enjoy our great Orange County as the seasons change. If you’re stumped for activities for you or your family, be sure to check out the county’s tourism website for some fun and different things to do! (www.pickocny.com)
Here’s a sample of things that happened in Orange County last week.
Staying on the topic of getting outside and enjoying the longer days, I’m thrilled to share some exciting updates about our trails.
The Orange County Parks crew has been hard at work, and clearing efforts are underway on both the Heritage and Schunnemunk Rail Trails. I personally use the Heritage Trail most days, especially during the warmer months, and I can honestly say it’s a true gem in our county. It’s a fantastic resource for our community and visitors to get out and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether running, biking, or taking a stroll, please be sure to notice and obey the safety guidelines posted along the Trail to keep all who use it safe.
More great parks and open space-related news is coming; stay tuned for updates!
I had the opportunity to visit Taiwan to explore potential economic development opportunities that could greatly benefit Orange County. I also had the chance to learn about innovative emergency management techniques aimed at improving response times and cutting-edge technology for first responders. It was a quick and enlightening trip. Joining me were Rick Golden, the county attorney, Alan Sorensen, the county commissioner of Planning, Conor Eckert, the soon-to-be president and CEO of the Orange County Partnership, and Aaron Hopmayer, the principal of Pine Bush High School and champion of its CTE Advanced Manufacturing Program.
Together, we attended an economic summit where we engaged with leaders in business and government to learn about Taiwan’s innovative approaches to economic growth, infrastructure development, and urban planning. The insights gained during this trip will be invaluable as we continue building a strong, forward-thinking economy in Orange County and exploring our innovative initiatives that will benefit our residents and businesses.
Last week, the Human Rights Commission, led by Executive Director Inaudy Gil, held the Third Annual Human Rights Conference, with the theme “Real Talk, Real Life.” A crowd of more than 200 professionals gathered in Kaplan Hall at SUNY Orange Newburgh to engage in meaningful discussions about some of the most pressing human rights issues affecting our county. Topics ranged from the impact of artificial intelligence to health equity and disability rights.
It was an inspiring day filled with thought-provoking conversations and a shared commitment to advancing human rights in our community and beyond. I thank and congratulate Inaudy and the commission for putting together and hosting an insightful workshop that empowers individuals and professionals to implement important practices in their work and daily lives.
I also extend my congratulations to the Newburgh Enlarged City School District for reaching a significant milestone with the topping-off ceremony for their new career and technical education facility. This state-of-the-art center will provide essential education and training, giving local students the skills they need to secure quality jobs and build successful careers. I also want to extend a special commendation to our local building trades for their dedicated efforts in bringing this project to life.
I, along with the Orange County Employment and Training Administration, am excited to announce the return of the Summer Youth Employment Program. This incredible initiative has supported local youth for more than 30 years. Thanks to the federally funded TANF grant, this program provides qualified young people with valuable job opportunities, hands-on skill development, job readiness training, and mentorship that will shape their futures. It is important to work together to help our youth grow, thrive, and build the skills they need for success.
For information on qualifications and registration, visit the Summer Youth Employment Program 2025 site here. The deadline is April 5.
Lastly, kudos and thank you to Montgomery for its fun and successful St. Patrick’s Parade. It was a fantastic event, and it was great to see the community out in full force enjoying it. It was especially wonderful to catch up with so many great friends. Being part of such a vibrant and welcoming community is always a joy.
On a sad note, I wish to convey my condolences to the Santiago family on the loss of their husband and father, Police Officer Jose Santiago. Jose was a wonderful man who did so much for our community. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered by many.
Spring fever is officially here, so get out and enjoy it. Maybe I will see you around the county!
