Orange, Virginia, is an enchanting community that invites you to explore its rich tapestry woven from history, culture, and scenic
beauty. Located in the Piedmont region, just a short drive from Charlottesville, Orange is a haven for those who value a sense of community and the tranquility of rural life coupled with the conveniences of modern living.
Step into Orange, and prepare to be greeted by tree-lined streets, charming boutiques, and an array of delightful eateries. The town's vibrant downtown is not only a shopper's paradise but also a celebration of local craftsmanship and creativity. Each store or restaurant tells a story, waiting to be discovered at your own pace.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes from the rolling hills to the sprawling vineyards that define the area. With numerous walking and biking trails, plus easy access to the Blue Ridge Mountains, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting just beyond your doorstep.
The community spirit here is simply infectious. Festivals fill the calendar, bringing friends and families together to celebrate local traditions and talents. And don’t miss the chance to attend a concert or event at the historic Paramount Theater, which adds a touch of legacy to the town's cultural offerings.
A blend of old-world charm and contemporary convenience, Orange, Virginia, is a welcoming place where everyone feels at home. Whether you’re passing through or planting roots,...
Discover the Charm of Orange, Virginia
Discover the Charm of Orange, Virginia: A Hidden Gem in Heartland America
Orange, Virginia, is an enchanting community that invites you to explore its rich tapestry woven from history, culture, and scenic beauty. Located in the Piedmont region, just a short drive from Charlottesville, Orange is a haven for those who value a sense of community and the tranquility of rural life coupled with the conveniences of modern living.
Step into Orange, and prepare to be greeted by tree-lined streets, charming boutiques, and an array of delightful eateries. The town's vibrant downtown is not only a shopper's paradise but also a celebration of local craftsmanship and creativity. Each store or restaurant tells a story, waiting to be discovered at your own pace.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes from the rolling hills to the sprawling vineyards that define the area. With numerous walking and biking trails, plus easy access to the Blue Ridge Mountains, there’s no shortage of adventures waiting just beyond your doorstep.
The community spirit here is simply infectious. Festivals fill the calendar, bringing friends and families together to celebrate local traditions and talents. And don’t miss the chance to attend a concert or event at the historic Paramount Theater, which adds a touch of legacy to the town's cultural offerings.
A blend of old-world charm and contemporary convenience, Orange, Virginia, is a welcoming place where everyone feels at home. Whether you’re passing through or planting roots, Orange offers an experience that is as warm and inviting as the town itself.
When temperatures begin to drop, many people start to prepare their homes and vehicles for the winter months. What is often overlooked, however, is the need to protect outdoor equipment from the same freezing conditions. Lawn mowers, leaf blowers, pressure washers, and even recreational vehicles can
suffer permanent damage if they are stored without care. Preparing equipment properly not only extends its life but also reduces the likelihood of expensive repairs in the spring.The first step is to address fuel systems. Small engines are particularly vulnerable to gasoline that sits for long
When temperatures begin to drop, many people start to prepare their homes and vehicles for the winter months. What is often overlooked, however, is the need to protect outdoor equipment from the same freezing conditions. Lawn mowers, leaf blowers, pressure washers, and even recreational vehicles can suffer permanent damage if they are stored without care. Preparing equipment properly not only extends its life but also reduces the likelihood of expensive repairs in the spring. The first step is to address fuel systems. Small engines are particularly vulnerable to gasoline that sits for long periods. Over the winter, untreated fuel can break down, clogging carburetors and fuel lines. One approach is to drain the fuel completely and run the engine until it shuts off, leaving no residue behind. Another option is to add a stabilizer to a nearly full tank, then run the engine for a few minutes so the treated fuel circulates. Either method helps prevent varnish buildup and ensures the equipment is ready to start when warm weather returns. Moisture and freezing temperatures also threaten other parts of outdoor machines. Seals, gaskets, and hoses can crack if water is left inside. For equipment that uses water, such as pressure washers, it is important to clear the system completely. Disconnect hoses and let the machine run briefly until no liquid remains. This step can prevent costly leaks and broken components once temperatures rise again. Tires and batteries require attention as well. Tires lose pressure more quickly in cold weather, and equipment left sitting for months on flat spots may not be safe to use. Inflating tires to the manufacturer’s recommended level before storage helps reduce the risk of damage. Batteries should be disconnected or, in some cases, removed entirely. A stored battery that slowly drains over the winter may not recharge in the spring, which can be frustrating and expensive to replace. Storage conditions make a significant difference. Leaving a mower, snowblower, or trailer uncovered in the yard exposes it to snow, ice, and constant temperature changes. A cover that is waterproof yet breathable offers protection from moisture while preventing condensation. Storing equipment off the ground on a pallet or platform helps avoid contact with damp soil or concrete. For larger vehicles, such as boats or campers, indoor storage is ideal when possible. Even a basic shelter can extend the life of the equipment and prevent unnecessary wear. Regular cleaning is another important part of winterizing. Dirt, leaves, and grass clippings can hold moisture against metal surfaces, leading to rust. A thorough cleaning before storage, along with lubrication of moving parts, keeps equipment in better shape. It is also a good time to check belts, blades, and other components for wear. Replacing these parts before storage means the equipment will be ready to use immediately when needed again. Owners should also consider documentation. Keeping a simple checklist of what was done before storage helps avoid confusion months later. Writing down whether the tank was drained or stabilized, whether the battery was removed, or whether maintenance was completed prevents unnecessary steps in the spring. This practice saves time and ensures nothing is overlooked. A small amount of preparation before winter can prevent large repair bills in the spring. Outdoor equipment represents a significant investment, and proper winterizing protects that value. It does not require complicated tools or expensive materials, only some attention to detail and a little time before the weather changes. Ultimately, winterizing outdoor equipment is about preserving reliability. Machines that start easily and perform as expected reduce frustration and keep projects on schedule. From lawn care to recreational activities, people depend on their equipment to work when needed. By following simple steps now, they avoid setbacks later. Winter brings enough challenges without adding repair bills to the list. Protecting equipment through careful storage and preparation is one way to ensure the return of warmer weather feels like a fresh start rather than a repair project. Each step taken before the first hard freeze adds peace of mind, knowing that when the season changes back, the tools and machines will be ready to go.
Matt Rexrode
fuel circulates. Either method helps prevent varnish buildup and ensures the equipment is ready to start when warm weather returns.Moisture and freezing temperatures also threaten other parts of outdoor machines. Seals, gaskets, and hoses can crack if water is left inside. For equipment that uses water, such as pressure washers, it is important to clear the system completely. Disconnect hoses and let the machine run briefly until no liquid remains. This step can prevent costly leaks and broken components once temperatures rise again.Tires and batteries require attention as well. Tires lose pressure more quickly in cold weather,...
periods. Over the winter, untreated fuel can break down, clogging carburetors and fuel lines. One approach is to drain the fuel completely and run the engine until it shuts off, leaving no residue behind. Another option is to add a stabilizer to a nearly full tank, then run the engine for a few minutes so the treated
A small amount of preparation before winter can prevent large repair bills in the spring.
About the Author
Matt Rexrode is the General Manager and Sales Manager at Beverage Tractor & Equipment, where he leads sales operations and oversees customer service across multiple Virginia locations. With years of experience in equipment sales and management, he is dedicated to matching customers with the right machines for their land and workload. Under his leadership, Beverage Tractor continues its tradition of providing trusted brands, knowledgeable support, and reliable solutions for property and agric...
HelloOrange, Virginia • Fall Issue |7
Education Thrives in Orange, Virginia
A Community of Learners
Orange, Virginia, is not just a picturesque town with rich history and vibrant community life; it is also a place where education flourishes at every turn. The local schools in Orange are known for their commitment to academic excellence, innovative programs, and nurturing environments. Teachers, staff, and administrators in Orange are dedicated
to fostering a love of learning in their students, equipping them with both the knowledge and skills needed for success in today’s rapidly changing world.
The schools in Orange prioritize personalized education, embracing the unique talents and interests of each learner. With engaging curricular and extracurricular activities, students have countless opportunities to explore new interests and cultivate existing
8 | HelloOrange, Virginia • Fall Issue
Hello Orange, Virginia • Fall Issue |9
Education Thrives in Orange, Virginia
passions. From science clubs to drama productions, there’s something for everyone, and each student is encouraged to excel both inside and outside the classroom.
Community involvement is another cornerstone of education in Orange. Partners from local businesses and organizations collaborate with schools to enrich the educational experience, providing students with real-world learning opportunities and exposure to various professional fields. This collaborative spirit ensures that education in Orange extends beyond textbooks and becomes a lively, community-centric endeavor.
In Orange, Virginia, education...
Education Thrives in Orange, Virginia: A Community of Learners
Orange, Virginia, is not just a picturesque town with rich history and vibrant community life; it is also a place where education flourishes at every turn. The local schools in Orange are known for their commitment to academic excellence, innovative programs, and nurturing environments. Teachers, staff, and administrators in Orange are dedicated to fostering a love of learning in their students, equipping them with both the knowledge and skills needed for success in today’s rapidly changing world.
The schools in Orange prioritize personalized education, embracing the unique talents and interests of each learner. With engaging curricular and extracurricular activities, students have countless opportunities to explore new interests and cultivate existing passions. From science clubs to drama productions, there’s something for everyone, and each student is encouraged to excel both inside and outside the classroom.
Community involvement is another cornerstone of education in Orange. Partners from local businesses and organizations collaborate with schools to enrich the educational experience, providing students with real-world learning opportunities and exposure to various professional fields. This collaborative spirit ensures that education in Orange extends beyond textbooks and becomes a lively, community-centric endeavor.
In Orange, Virginia, education is more than just schooling; it is a vibrant, supportive community where students thrive. Bright futures begin here, where everyone contributes to creating an environment that inspires lifelong learning and success.
