Good evening everyone,

Before we dive into tonight’s agenda, I want to start by recognizing a few moments that have touched our community and my heart personally.

It is with deep sadness that I share the passing of former Neabsco District School Board Member, Ms. Diane Raulston, who passed away on April 24th. A service to honor her life will be held this Friday, May 9th at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Manassas, with a reception to follow.

Ms. Raulston wasn’t just a leader—she was a mentor, a connector, and a fierce community advocate. Back in 2012, she stood beside Al Brooks and Willie Toney and helped push forward a wave of leadership in this county that began to reflect the community it serves—including helping me get elected to Town Council that year. To all who knew her and were impacted by her work—thank you for carrying her legacy forward.

And on a personal note, my family is grieving a heartbreaking loss. My younger brother, only brother passed away suddenly this past Friday. The outpouring of love and support we’ve received has been overwhelming, and I want to thank each and every one of you who reached out.

Our faith has been shaken—but not broken. We’re holding onto each other and to the belief that even in the midst of grief, community brings comfort. His services will be held next Tuesday, May 13th, at 11 a.m. in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Please continue to keep our family in prayer.

Now, even with all that’s happened, I’m reminded that this community continues to move forward—and April gave us a lot to be proud of.

I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate one of our very own—Town Clerk Nykesha D. Lucas—for her outstanding accomplishments and continued excellence in service.

Nykesha was recently honored as Clerk of the Year 2025, and it’s an award that couldn’t be more well-deserved. Her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to transparency and good governance have not only elevated our Town Hall, but also set a standard across the Commonwealth.

Whether it’s keeping us organized behind the scenes, ensuring our public records are accessible, she does it all with style and grace..

Nykesha, congratulations, and thank you for being the steady hand that helps keep Dumfries moving forward. We are proud of you.

Congratulations also to our Town Manager and her staff, we were awarded almost $200,000 from Virginia Energy’s Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants to implement a comprehensive Residential Energy Auditor Training Program and include workforce and development and energy services.

I had the honor of representing Dumfries at the African American Mayors Association Conference, where we brought home a grant to support our local efforts towards a healthy eating active living community with a garden program at the Boys and Girls Club.. It was a proud moment—not just for me, but for all of us—because our presence matters. Our small town is showing up in national conversations around infrastructure, development, and resilience. And I’m proud to serve as Co-Chair of the Transportation, Infrastructure, and Resiliency Committee, helping to ensure that communities like ours aren’t overlooked.

Back here at home, we saw our community shine at the annual Easter Egg Roll at Ginn Memorial Park. A big shoutout to Pillar Church—they’ve partnered with us on this event every year since we opened the park in 2013. And to our incredible town staff who served hot dogs and smiles all day—thank you. It’s those small moments of joy that bring our town together.

Speaking of people who show up with heart—my mom just retired after 43 years of federal service. But if you know her, you know she’s not slowing down anytime soon. She’s still volunteering all over town, giving back just like she always has. Mom—thank you for leading by example. I love you, and I’m so proud to be your son.

Now let’s talk about what’s ahead.

This is Teacher Appreciation Week, and today is National Teacher Day. The theme is “Teachers Illuminate the Future,” and it’s true—our teachers are lighting the way for the next generation. Thank you for all you do.

Mother’s Day is this Sunday, and I want to wish all the mothers, grandmothers, aunties, and mother-figures a joyful and love-filled day. We see you, and we thank you.

Memorial Day is coming up, and as a veteran, it’s more than just a long weekend. It’s a sacred moment to honor those who gave their lives so we could live freely. Let’s not just remember them—let’s live in a way that honors their sacrifice.

It’s also Small Business Week and Business Appreciation Month. Our small businesses are the heartbeat of Dumfries—thank you for all you do. Let’s keep shopping local, dining local, and investing in one another.

And of course, it’s Mental Health Awareness Month. I invite you to join me every Monday at 7 PM for Move with the Mayor at the Fitness Court. It’s a time to move, connect, and reset together. Because when we move our bodies, we lift our minds—and we strengthen our community.

And finally—this May, we mark 276 years since Dumfries was chartered. That’s not just a number—it’s a testament to resilience. While the Town won’t be hosting a formal Charter Day event, I encourage you to check out Historic Dumfries for any programs and to take a moment to appreciate how far we’ve come.

To hear more about where we’re headed, I invite you to join us for the 7th Annual State of the Town Address on Thursday, June 5th at 6 PM. We’ll talk about progress, priorities, and how we’re building the Dumfries of tomorrow—together.

So here’s tonight’s food for thought:

“When you strengthen the roots of a tree, its branches reach farther.”

Let’s keep strengthening the roots of Dumfries—through unity, service, and shared purpose.

Thank you, and may this month be one of reflection, growth, and hope.