13 February Orange County Executive Neuhaus Unveils Early Childhood Connections to Guide Families Through Early Childhood Services February 13, 2026 By Town Clerk . Community News, General 0 County Executive Neuhaus is pleased to announce the launch of Early Childhood Connections, a free service designed to help families, caregivers, and providers navigate the wide range of early childhood resources available throughout the County. This initiative was developed through the work of the Orange County Infant and Early Childhood Coalition, in collaboration with the Orange County Health Department, Orange County Department of Mental Health, and the Orange County Youth Bureau. Early Childhood Connections ensure that families with young children can more easily access the services and support they need. “When families have concerns about their child’s development, they deserve clear answers and compassionate support,” said Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus. “Early Childhood Connections provides a trusted place to turn, one that helps families understand their options and connect to services that support and strengthen children and families across Orange County.” The phone line provides individualized guidance, resource navigation, and personalized support to families seeking assistance with developmental, behavioral, early learning, or family-support needs. Early Childhood Connections is not a crisis line; rather, it is a navigation and resource support service that helps families understand what services exist, how to access them, and how to connect with the right providers. Families, caregivers, and early childhood professionals can call 845-615-3613 or email [email protected] to receive: Assistance navigating early childhood programs and community resources Support in understanding available developmental, behavioral, and family services Help connecting to screenings, early intervention, and early learning supports Guidance on next steps when concerns arise about a child’s development Information for providers seeking resources for the families they serve Early Childhood Connections was created to ensure that no family feels alone or overwhelmed when trying to access services for their young children. By offering warm, knowledgeable, and personalized support, the program strengthens the network of care for Orange County’s youngest residents. “The Orange County Youth Bureau has over 48 years of expertise in promoting Positive Youth Development. Part of that experience includes providing Resource and Referral assistance for children, youth, and families,” shared Orange County Youth Bureau Executive Director Rachel Wilson. “We are especially excited to be a part of this new initiative to better assist families with young children access the information and services they need while providing extra support throughout the process.” For a brochure with additional information about Resources for Children Ages 0-5 and Families/Caregivers please visit https://www.orangecountygov.com/DocumentCenter/View/31409/Family-Infant-and-Early-Childhood-Brochure?bidId=. For general media inquiries, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to the County Executive and Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845-291-2700 or [email protected]. Stay connected with County Executive Neuhaus and Orange County Government on social media: Facebook: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus Instagram: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus X (formerly Twitter): @OCGovNY | @SNeuhausOC Be sure to also check out the Blueprint Orange video series, a behind-the-scenes look at the projects, places, and people that make our County a great place to live. And don’t miss the newest episode of NeuCast, featuring Fidanza Family Properties, now streaming OrangeCountyGov.com on the County Executive page. Related Articles O.C. Executive Steven M. Neuhaus has Declared a Local State of Emergency in Orange County For Immediate Release Contact: Rebecca Sheehan January 25, 2026 Phone: 845.291.2700 In response to the developing winter storm situation in Orange County, County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus has declared a "Local State of Emergency" in Orange County, as provided for under the provisions of Article 2-B, Section 24, N.Y.S. Executive Law. This declaration empowers County officials to temporarily suspend and/or change normal County operating procedures including (but not limited to); saving lives, mitigating property damage, limiting access to impacted areas, and requesting additional assistance from New York State. Advisory for Residents: Residents of Orange County are advised to refrain from being on the roads unless they are deemed "essential personnel." County employees should not report to work unless you are essential. If you are uncertain as to your status, reach out to your department head. All vehicular and pedestrian traffic are prohibited from County roadways except for workers designated by medical, law enforcement, and municipalities as essential and traveling to and from work, as well as other officials and employees assisting in the effort to abate the emergency. County Executive Neuhaus and Orange County's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) staff is continuing to monitor this situation and is ready to implement any procedures necessary to protect the overall safety of all County residents. Further information/details: · Due to the extremely low temperatures, the County's Code Blue is in effect. No one should be out on the streets. We are currently monitoring 80 individuals in shelters. If you are aware of someone who is without housing, or have other non-emergency questions or concerns, please call 311. A list of warming centers available throughout the County is available on the Orange County Government website. · Municipalities can "piggyback" on County contracts for emergency procurement needs. · County Government Buildings will be closed to the public on Monday, January 26, 2026, including, the Orange County Government Center, County Clerk, DMV, All Courts, and the Orange County Courthouse. · Most schools in Orange County have announced closings for tomorrow. If you are uncertain about the status of a particular school district, please check the school district's website and/or social media. · The Emergency Operations Center has been fully activated since 7:00 a.m. Sunday, January 25, 2026, with multiple community partners on-site, including Central Hudson, Orange and Rockland, Orange County Sheriff's Office, NY State Police, and the County's Emergency Operation's Team and will continue to be fully operational until 3:00 p.m. Monday, January 26, 2026, and longer if deemed necessary. · While the snow currently falling is not heavy, there will be a significant volume of it, with ice and sleet a possibility. Please use caution when shoveling, doing snow removal. "I want to thank County residents for staying home and off the roads, which allows the public works and first responders to do what they have to more efficiently and effectively," stated County Executive Neuhaus. "We have had a limited number of accidents thus far, which is due in large part to your cooperation. I also want to thank my emergency management team, public works personnel, and first responders who are out working to make sure our community stays safe." Residents are advised to remain informed by monitoring official updates on Orange County Government's website and social media pages: https://www.facebook.com/OrangeCountyGovernment and https://www.facebook.com/OrangeCountyEmergencyManagement and be ready to follow any safety guidance issued by local authorities. Additional information will be provided as the situation develops. For more information, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to County Executive, Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845.907.2332 or [email protected]. For general media inquiries, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to the County Executive and Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845-291-2700 or [email protected]. Stay connected with County Executive Neuhaus and Orange County Government on social media:? o Facebook: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus? o Instagram: @OrangeCountyNYGovt | @Steve.Neuhaus? o X (formerly Twitter): @OCGovNY | @SNeuhausOC? Be sure to also check out the Blueprint Orange video series, a behind-the-scenes look at the projects, places, and people that make our County a great place to live. And don't miss the newest episode of NeuCast, featuring HONOR, now streaming on the Orange County Government YouTube channel and OrangeCountyGov.com. Orange County News: District Attorney David Hoovler Announces the Fourth Orange County District Attorney’s Office Youth Fishing Derby “Get Hooked on Fishing, Not Drugs” Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, announced the launch of the fourth District Attorney’s Office Youth Fishing Derby. The Derby will run from April 1, 2024 through September 2, 2024 and is open to children between the ages of four and eighteen who are children or grandchildren of Orange County residents. The fishing is great in Orange County, so give it a try! In 2015, almost 45,000 fishing licenses were sold in Orange County. That year, of the 62 counties in New York State, only two counties sold more fishing licenses than Orange County. Last year, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation stocked about 38,880 trout in Orange County waters. In addition, the Orange County Federation of Sportsmen stocked trout in waters with public fishing access. There are 86 named lakes in Orange County and hundreds more unnamed lakes and ponds that contain several species of fish of interest to the angler. Orange County also has many miles of rivers and streams to fish as well. The Hudson, Delaware, Neversink, Ramapo, and Wallkill Rivers and several small streams have public access to good fishing. If you do not own a boat, no problem. There is plenty of shore fishing in many state, county, and town parks in Orange County. Fish, large and small, call Orange County home. There are large striped bass in the Hudson River during the spring run. The New York State freshwater record striped bass, which weighed 60 pounds, was caught in the Hudson River in Orange County in 2014. Greenwood Lake has muskellunge, walleye, and bass ready to test your skills as an angler. The Wallkill River is loaded with smallmouth bass and rock bass. Try small topwater lures here for exciting action! If you are a novice or first-time angler, Orange County lakes, ponds, and streams are heavily populated with panfish that are easy to catch. Bluegills, pumpkinseeds, yellow perch, bullheads, and crappies are found in almost all the lakes and ponds in the county. Try worms under a bobber using light tackle and do not be surprised if a large bass or pickerel grabs your bait instead! Try Rutgers, Moodna, or Woodbury creeks for trout. Flies, small spinner baits, worms, or salmon eggs are used to catch rainbow and brown trout in those streams. Fishing teaches many life lessons, such as patience and how to deal with success and failure. Several U.S. presidents were accomplished fishermen and used fishing to relax from the stress and responsibilities of their office. Participants will also learn to enjoy and respect nature and, by spending more time with family and friends, will alleviate some of the boredom and anxiety caused by the stress in life. It is that boredom and anxiety that has led so many of our young people to turn to drug use or gang activity. Sports and other worthwhile activities can help deter young people from those bad choices. The Derby will encourage our young people to go fishing and enjoy the outdoors and hopefully avoid drug use. The Fishing Derby is part of District Attorney Hoovler’s community outreach program. This contest began during COVID-19 and continues to help young anglers make good choices. Participation in fishing skyrocketed with New Yorkers during the COVID-19 crisis, because that activity could be enjoyed at almost any age, in the outdoors with friends and family, while social distancing. The Fishing Derby will encourage the youth of Orange County to participate in an exciting outdoor sport that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. Remember, any fish entered in the Derby, big or small, has an equal chance to win a prize for the contestant. CONTEST RULES: Entry into the Youth Fishing Derby is free. All fish entered in the contest must be legally caught from anywhere in New York State. Contestants must adhere to all current New York State fishing regulations. Fresh and saltwater fish are eligible to be entered into the contest. To enter, email a photo of the contestant holding the fish, as well as the child’s first name and an adult contact phone number, to [email protected]. Each angler can enter up to three fish during the contest, to have multiple chances to win. Ten winners will be drawn at random from all entries received during the contest dates. Each angler is limited to one prize package. All photos entered in the Youth Fishing Derby becomes the property of the Derby. PRIZE PACKAGE: Each winner will receive an Orange County District Attorney’s Office limited t-shirt and a Mystery Tackle Box Bass Fishing Kit. Bonus prize: The first winner drawn will also receive a $100 gift card. Prizes can be picked up at the District Attorney’s Office by the winners in Goshen or will be mailed to them at the conclusion of the contest. “I wish good luck to all our young anglers,” said District Attorney Hoovler, “and I hope that you enjoy your time in our great outdoors. Please always remember safety! Wear a life vest when in a boat or near deep water. Be careful with hooks and other fishing tackle. Look where you cast and behind you, to avoid hooking someone by mistake. Remember sunglasses to protect your eyes from both the sun and from hooks that might pop loose from a hooked fish. Remember that good anglers don’t litter, because it hurts our wildlife habitat and can lead to the loss of public access for fishing. Have fun and stay safe, and maybe I’ll see you on the water this year!” DA Hoovler helping the Orange County Federation of Sportsmen to stock trout Orange County State of Emergency Lifted For Immediate Release January 26, 2026 Contact: Rebecca Sheehan 845.291.2700 Orange County State of Emergency Lifted County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus has announced that the Local State of Emergency in Orange County will be officially lifted effective at 12:00 Noon today, Monday, January 26th. Road conditions have significantly improved following sustained clean-up operations by municipal and County public works crews, and travel throughout the County can begin to return to normal. Public works crews will continue to monitor the roadways and address any remaining isolated issues. Residents should continue to give these public servants access to the roadways to continue necessary snow removal work. Parking restrictions associated with the State of Emergency are no longer in effect, unless otherwise posted. Municipal parking restrictions remain in effect for the duration of the State of Emergency issued within that jurisdiction. “Thanks to the diligent and dedicated hard work of our public works crews and emergency personnel, as well as the patience and cooperation of County residents, we are able to safely lift this State of Emergency,” said Neuhaus. “However, I encourage residents to remain off the roads as much as possible and use caution when traveling, as there are still snow removal operations in progress.” Further information/details: · The County’s Code Blue remains in effect due to below freezing temperatures. No one should be out on the streets. If you are aware of someone who is without housing, or have other non-emergency questions or concerns, please call 311. A list of warming centers available throughout the County is available on the Orange County Government website. · County Government Buildings remain closed to the public today, Monday, January 26, 2026, including, the Orange County Government Center, County Clerk, DMV, All Courts, and the Orange County Courthouse. All government offices are expected to open on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. County employees need not report to work today, except designated essential workers that have been directed to report to work by a Department Head. County employees are to report to work on regular schedules beginning tomorrow, January 27th. · For information about Orange County school and businesses closures, please check the school district’s or business’ websites and social media. · The Emergency Operations Center has been fully activated since 7:00 a.m. Sunday, January 25, 2026, with multiple community partners on-site, including Central Hudson, Orange and Rockland, Orange County Sheriff’s Office, NY State Police, and the County’s Emergency Operation’s Team and will continue to be fully operational until 3:00 p.m. Monday, January 26, 2026. Residents are advised to remain informed by monitoring official updates on Orange County Government’s website and social media pages: https://www.facebook.com/OrangeCountyGovernment and https://www.facebook.com/OrangeCountyEmergencyManagement and be ready to follow any safety guidance issued by local authorities. Additional information will be provided as the situation develops. For more information, contact Rebecca Sheehan, Assistant to County Executive, Director of Public Information and Media Relations, at 845.907.2332 or [email protected]. Orange County News District Attorney Hoovler and the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System Announce that the Orange County Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition will have two Information Tables at Freedom Fest to Distribute Veteran Crisis Line Awareness Items, VA benefit information and Other Related Information to Interested Veterans and Their Families. District Attorney Hoovler joined Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System to create a Coalition to Prevent Veterans from Committing Suicide in November 2021 District Attorney David M. Hoovler, and both Carl LoFaro and Lenox Okall from the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System announced that the Orange County Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition will put out a table in the lodge and another one in the vendor field during the Orange County fireworks show, Freedom Fest on July 19, 2024, to hand out veteran crisis materials and veteran benefit information. The coalition has already placed over 43,000 suicide prevention materials in over 1,128 businesses and organizations located in and near Orange County, New York. The coalition hopes to reach even more people with their message at this year’s Freedom Fest. The coalition is also partnering with several other veteran groups and government agencies during Freedom Fest to pass out information on upcoming local veteran events, activities, and benefits. The Coalition will have information on hand from the Veterans Administration, Mission 22, Hudson Valley Honor Flight, Clear Path For Veterans, Vet Center, DAV, Navy Federal Credit Union, Heroes, Cowboys & Companions, INC. and others. The coalition also wishes to thank Orange County Executive Steven Neuhaus for his assistance to the coalition during this past year. The Orange County Clerk Kelly Eskew will also have applications for the Orange County Veterans Discount Program available at the information table. The Orange County Veterans Service Agency administrated by Christian Farrell will also have handouts about the services they provide to Orange County Veterans. In addition, the District Attorney’s office will have booklets to pass out on preventing senior citizen fraud and materials on the opioid crisis with a view towards preventing drug use and overdose by our young people. The Orange County Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition is trying to reach as many veterans and their families as possible with their suicide prevention message. Since Freedom Fest draws large crowds many of whom are veterans, this event is a great place to meet veterans who might not have seen the materials we have placed out in public already. Representatives of the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System, Clear Path For Vets, Vet Center, DAV, Heroes, Cowboys & Companions and Orange County ADAs will be on site if anyone would like to discuss the information in our handouts or set up a future meeting to speak to a group live about suicide prevention. The coalition has already been to several veteran organizations and sportsmen’s clubs to speak about suicide prevention and are looking to speak to more interested groups in the future. “I am proud of the work that the Orange County Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition has done for Orange County veterans and their families and of the strong support that has been provided to the coalition by the citizens and businesses of Orange County” said District Attorney David M. Hoovler. If you or your organization would like any veteran crisis materials or information about any of the other Veterans groups helping us in Orange County, please stop by our tables. The coalition will be happy to assist you. You can also contact Mr. Carl LoFaro of the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System at [email protected] to get crisis materials sent to you or to set up a live meeting with your organization on this serious subject. Please contact Mr. Lenox Okall of the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System at [email protected] if you need information on VA benefits. Enjoy Freedom Fest and the fireworks! Orange County News, 7-9-2024 District Attorney Hoovler and the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System Announce that the Orange County Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition will have an Information Table at the Osborn – Fitzsimmons American Legion Post 521 Car Show to Distribute Veteran Crisis Line Awareness Items, VA benefit information and Other Related Information to Interested Veterans and Their Families. District Attorney Hoovler joined Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System to create a Coalition to Prevent Veterans from Committing Suicide in November 2021 District Attorney David M. Hoovler, and both Carl LoFaro and Lenox Okall from the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System announced that the Orange County Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition will put out a veteran information table during the Osborn – Fitzsimmons American Legion Post 521 Car Show on Sunday July 14, 2024, to hand out veteran crisis materials and veteran benefit information. This car show is part of the Official 2024 Connecticut Cruise Ring Event and is free for spectators. The event runs from 9am until 3pm at Veterans Memorial Park located on Bridge Street in Montgomery, New York. The coalition has already placed over 43,000 suicide prevention materials in over 1,128 businesses and organizations located in and near Orange County, New York. The coalition hopes to reach even more people with their message at this year’s car show. In addition, the District Attorney’s office will have booklets to pass out on preventing senior citizen fraud and materials on the opioid crisis with a view towards preventing drug use and overdose by our young people. The Orange County Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition is trying to reach as many veterans and their families as possible with their suicide prevention message. Since car shows draw large crowds, many of whom are veterans, this event is a great place to meet veterans who might not have seen the materials we have placed out in public already. Representatives of the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System, and an Orange County ADA will be on site if anyone would like to discuss the information in our handouts or set up a future meeting to speak to a group live about suicide prevention. The coalition has already been to several veteran organizations and sportsmen’s clubs to speak about suicide prevention and are looking to speak to more interested groups in the future. “I am proud of the work that the Orange County Veteran Suicide Prevention Coalition has done for Orange County veterans and their families and of the strong support that has been provided to the coalition by the citizens and businesses of Orange County including American Legion Post 521 located in Montgomery, New York.” said District Attorney David M. Hoovler. Please come out to the show and support the American Legion! If you or your organization would like any veteran crisis materials or information about any of the other Veterans groups helping us in Orange County, please stop by our table. The coalition will be happy to assist you. You can also contact Mr. Carl LoFaro of the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System at [email protected] to get crisis materials sent to you or to set up a live meeting with your organization on this serious subject. Please contact Mr. Lenox Okall of the Hudson Valley VA Healthcare System at [email protected] if you need information on VA benefits. Please contact Mark Merring at [email protected] if you would like information on the car show. Enjoy the American Legion car show! The Orange County Department of Motor Vehicle offices will be closed beginning Thursday, February 12th, 2026 Orange County Clerk, Kelly A. Eskew, announces all Orange County DMV’s will be temporarily closed for the new State licensing modernization program. The Orange County Department of Motor Vehicle offices will be closed beginning Thursday, February 12th, 2026(President’s Holiday) and is tentatively scheduled to reopen on Wednesday February 18, 2026, at 9:00am. County Clerk Kelly A. Eskew encourages residents to make necessary arrangements in advance due to the upcoming New York Statewide DMV closure, beginning on Friday February 13, 2026. The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles will be implementing the new Licensing DRIVES application. During this time all DMV transactions, including in-person, online and telephone services, will be temporarily unavailable while the large-scale system upgrade is completed. The office will reopen to the public as soon as the State confirms system readiness and we will communicate any changes to the reopening schedule. During the initial weeks following reopening, please allow extra time for your transactions to be completed as staff and customers adjust to the new system. Your patience and understanding during this transition are greatly appreciated. Please note: This DMV closure will not affect the other operations of the Orange County Clerk’s Office, which will remain open for all non-DMV services. Comments are closed.