by John Reid

A beautiful fall morning at Forest Greens Golf Club in Triangle was the scene for a gathering of community leaders and supporters. Dumfries Mayor Derrick Wood and Potomac District Supervisor hosted the first annual “Teeing Up Fore Progress” event. It was an opportunity to meet with the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) organizations to celebrate the progress made within Virginia’s oldest town as well as within the Potomac District.

Back in 2021, Supervisor Bailey honored the NPHC, better known as the “Divine Nine” collection of Black Greek-lettered fraternities and sororities, for their extensive work within Prince William County. Wood spoke about the importance of the event.

“When we talk about teeing up for progress,” he said to the attendees, “it’s really about the progress we’ve made over the last four years to bring about changes and development to the community.”

Wood has overseen several developmental projects within the town, from the building of Rosie’s casino to the proposed Route 1 expansion, as well as the recent dedication of the Dumfries outdoor fitness court. Next Thursday at 6pm, he will host the town of Dumfries business roundtable at the John Wilmer Porter Municipal Building in Dumfries.

Bailey, who declared her plans for re-election last year, is focused on her goal to “Finish the Work,” addressed

“We have worked very hard to make sure this community is home, and there is progress in Prince William County,” said Bailey. “We want to make sure this is a place where everyone calls home.”

Among the goals Bailey has overseen to this point has been the 17% increase in salaries for police officers, the dedication of the Crisis Receiving Center near Potomac Mills, the Potomac Shores VRE expansion and working with local officials to increase safety by reducing crime, which she says is “not at a 70% increase.” If re-elected, her plans are to continue with growing a healthy commercial tax base to support businesses, and the Potomac Technology Park, which is currently on hold.

Early voting in the general election is underway, with the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. Omicron Zeta Sigma Chapter hosting a ‘Souls to the Polls’ event on Sunday, October 22 from 1pm to 5pm at the following locations:

Office of Elections, 9250 Lee Avenue in Manassas

DMV Woodbridge, 2731 Caton Hill Road in Woodbridge

Haymarket Gainesville Library, 14870 Lightner Road in Haymarket