Around the County This Week With Steve Neuhaus

July is marching on, very hot and very busy! Read on to learn about some of the things going on around Orange County these past few days…

Another successful Freedom Fest is in the books! Thousands of people from across Orange County gathered at Thomas Bull Memorial Park for an unforgettable evening of music, food, and celebration of our country and our veterans who helped to protect it. The music was fantastic, (thank you Robby Valentine and the Black Dirt Bandits and Julia Roome!), the weather was perfect, and the positive energy and community spirit were everywhere. On behalf of all those who came to the event, many thanks to our County departments and staff whose hard work make this beloved tradition happen year after year. We’re already planning Uncle Sam’s 250th birthday celebration in 2026.

I had the honor of cutting the ribbon and enjoying a first taste at The Kitchen, the new restaurant now open at Resorts World Hudson Valley. This exciting addition not only enhances the culinary offerings in our region but also boosts local tourism and supports job creation. Thank you to Chef Scott Conant for choosing Orange County to showcase his talent. We’re proud to welcome The Kitchen and congratulate the entire team at Resorts World and the Town of Newburgh on this outstanding new venture.

Spending time with our students who are our future leaders, is always a privilege for me, and I was honored to be the keynote speaker at the Pine Bush Central School District’s Leadership and Law Academy graduation. This outstanding program gives students firsthand exposure to government, economics, and the criminal justice system. Speaking to 120 driven and bright students and their proud families was a reminder of the importance of following your dreams and choosing a path that brings you both purpose and happiness. Congratulations to all the graduates!

Speaking of future leaders, 45 remarkable young people took time out of summer break to learn CPR through a partnership between the Orange County Youth Bureau and Orange County Emergency Services. Learning CPR is more than a skill; it’s a tool that can put you in a position to potentially save a life. CPR provides an individual with the knowledge and confidence to respond to a crisis. Thank you to our partners and to the American Heart Association for making this powerful program possible. Our community is safer because of it. Interested in taking CPR – visit: https://www.orangecountygov.com/2216/CPR-and-First-Aid-training-information

I want to mention the opportunities available to work with and for Orange County. If you own a business or are a contractor that wants to learn about how to bid on projects that Orange County has coming up, please go to: https://www.bidnetdirect.com/new-york/county-of-orange

If you are an individual looking for a potential job or career with Orange County, take a minute to look at the County’s Human Resources Department page at https://www.orangecountygov.com/1137/Human-Resources.

The weather’s been unpredictable, but summer is still a wonderful time to get outside and take in the beauty of our County. Hickory Hill (Warwick) and Stony Ford (Montgomery) Golf Courses both offer a great round of golf for all levels, featuring picturesque fairways and new bunkers. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, give either course a try. Not a golfer? Me either! Our parks and public spaces have lots to offer. You can explore scenic trails, catch a concert, or simply spend time with family in the fresh air. There are countless ways to have fun and make the most of the season right here in Orange County.

Find your next adventure by checking out the County’s Parks page: https://www.orangecountygov.com/2315/Parks-Recreation

Wherever your travels take you in OC, I hope to see you Around the County.