When family witnesses your public calling, the personal and the political become one.

A July 4th to Remember

This 4th of July was more than a celebration of freedom — it was a moment where legacy, leadership, and love all converged in ways I never expected.

As I marched in the Dale City Independence Day Parade, representing the Town of Dumfries, I wasn't just wearing the title of Mayor. I was carrying the weight of generations — and the joy of knowing that my own family was there to witness it.

We were also hosting our Perkins & Teel Family Reunion, with over 100 relatives traveling in from all over the country. The weekend was a masterclass in juggling — getting everyone there before 9am for the parade, managing the meet and greet afterward, ensuring my BBQ business was represented at the family fun day, and making it to Merchant Park by 3pm to start the family fish fry. Some family members arrived on site before me and watched as residents approached to acknowledge the work we're doing in Dumfries. They witnessed me multitasking in real time — and felt the pride of seeing their relative lead.

When Legacy Meets Leadership

The moment that captured it all was when my cousin John's daughter — who had traveled from Miami with her father — asked if she could help carry the banner. John talks about me all the time to family members, but this was different. This was her seeing it in action.

As we walked together, I watched my family members' faces light up — not just with pride, but with understanding. They were witnessing how leadership ripples outward, inspiring even the youngest among us to step up and serve.

For many in my family, this was their first time seeing me in my role as Mayor. It wasn't just a proud moment — it was confirmation. Confirmation that the sacrifices were worth it. That the prayers were working. That the legacy is continuing.

Along the parade route, we were joined by powerful leaders like Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger, who is running to be the next Governor of Virginia, and Congressman Eugene Vindman, a strong advocate for justice and accountability. But what moved me most were the residents — people who stopped me mid-parade to say:

"Mayor, we see the change. Dumfries is transforming. Thank you for leading us there."

That kind of feedback doesn't just fill your cup — it overflows it.

Real Partnerships, Real Results

Our momentum isn't happening in isolation. The presence of Congresswoman Spanberger and Congressman Vindman at the parade wasn't just symbolic — it reflects growing federal attention on Dumfries.

We've built real relationships that deliver tangible results. Right now, we're awaiting Congressional approval for a Direct Spending request that Congressman Vindman is championing to help us bury power lines and improve the conditions of Quantico Creek. We've also secured over $1 million in brownfield revitalization grants and are working with Chairman Luke Torian of the Virginia House Appropriations Committee, who has been instrumental in helping us secure the Rose Gaming Resort and changing the gaming tax code to increase our tax revenues by over 300 percent.

The biggest transformation people have already witnessed is our landfill closing 10 years early and soon opening as a park with over 80 acres of greenspace, with the landmark Rose Gaming Resort sitting where the admin offices of the landfill once sat.

From Mayor Wood to Derrick Frying Fish

What made this weekend special wasn't just the parade — it was the seamless transition afterward. At the parade, I was Mayor Wood, representing Dumfries with dignity and purpose. But at the family fish fry, I was just Derrick — frying fish, making burgers and hot dogs, serving my family with no titles, just love.

My family watched me switch roles effortlessly, and in that moment, I think they understood something profound: you don't have to choose between serving your community, honoring your family, and building your dreams. You can do all three, with purpose and with pride.

Dumfries Is on the Move

For years, Dumfries was the town people passed through. Now, it's becoming the town people come to — and talk about. From regional partnerships to infrastructure upgrades, from family-friendly parks to economic development, we are stepping into a new era.

And to be able to showcase that progress in a neighboring city, surrounded by community support and generations of family, was the kind of moment that reminds you who you are, and why you're here.

A Personal Note of Gratitude

To Dale City — thank you for welcoming Dumfries with open arms. To my family — thank you for walking with me, cheering for me, and believing in what God has planted me to do. To John and his daughter — thank you for showing me that inspiration travels across generations and state lines.

To the people of Dumfries — thank you for allowing me to lead you into what's next.

Together, we are writing a new chapter. One parade. One policy. One family moment at a time.

From Overlooked to Unforgettable. And We're Just Getting Started.

If you're inspired by what you see happening in Dumfries, I invite you to stay connected and follow our journey. The best is still ahead. Join us as we continue to build a thriving, connected, and unforgettable Dumfries.

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