Hard to believe that we’re into March already. The sun is sticking around longer at the end of the day and the temps are starting to warm up. Spring is right around the corner, bringing with it fresh opportunities. March weather is always unpredictable, but here’s to embracing the changing seasons, and to continuing to work together with the Orange County Government to build a stronger and better community.
Building better communities is always part of the conversation at the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC) Legislative Conference in Albany last week. I’m proud to serve on the Board of NYSAC, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. The Conference focuses on counties’ legislative priorities for the year ahead as well as the most pressing issues impacting county governments. The presentations and course topics are always interesting and engaging, and this year included Orange County’s Tourism and Film Director, Amanda Dana, and Deputy Commissioner of Health Lisa Lahiff. Amanda was part of a panel that shared valuable information about the pivotal role tourism plays in driving economic development, helping to shape our local economy and create new opportunities for growth. Lisa was part of a panel that shared the challenges and legalities of public health administration. Both did a terrific job and represented Orange County well!
The County’s Employment and Training Administration (ETA) hosted a very successful job fair last week. Job seekers had the opportunity to connect with potential employers from all over the County. It was a chance for candidates to meet, engage, and explore new career possibilities with local employers. If you are seeking employment, please take advantage of the ETA and the terrific resources they offer. Future job fairs will be held in April and May. Head to https://www.orangecountygov.com/352/Employment-Training or call 845-615-3630 to learn more about what’s available to you.
I also attended the National Association of Counties (NaCo) in Washington, D.C. This Legislative Conference brings together nearly 2,000 elected and appointed County officials to focus on federal policy issues that impact counties and our residents. Once again, the meetings were interesting and helpful, but there was one highlight. On Sunday, I had the honor of placing a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. It was a truly moving and humbling experience. Arlington Cemetery is incredibly hallowed ground and I’m grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of that solemn ceremony. Afterwards, I took the opportunity to visit the grave of my friend, SSgt Nate, who I served with in Iraq, and I was able to pay tribute to the crew from the USS Maine who are buried there. If you ever travel to Washington, D.C., I highly recommend paying a visit to Arlington National Cemetery on your list of places to see.
There are so many things to see and do around the County during the month of March. In addition to St. Patrick’s Day festivities all month long in many municipalities, there are home shows, musical acts at various venues, and hiking, fishing, and lots of other activities for the indoor or outdoor enthusiasts. Take a look at https://www.pickocny.com/ for other ideas. Whatever you do, enjoy your week and I’ll see you Around the County.
To learn more about what County Executive Neuhaus is doing for Orange County, follow Orange County Government and Steven M. Neuhaus on Facebook, @Orange County NY Govt and @steve.neuhaus on Instagram, and @OCGovNY and @SNeuhausOC on X. You can also watch Neuhaus’ NeuCast podcasts and Leadership Speaker Series on YouTube.
