Woodbridge, Va. — Documents show Virginia Senate candidate Tito Munoz once belonged to Virginia’s disadvantaged and minority-owned business program.
In documents provided to PotomacLocal.com by Munoz’s opponent, Jeff Frederick, Munoz’s Dale City-based DeBorne Construction had been listed in Virginia’s online directory of disadvantaged businesses. A search of the database Wednesday revealed the company has been removed from the list.
A Munoz campaign spokesman said DeBorne Construction was listed as a disadvantaged business and was never listed with the federal government. Munoz decided to remove his business from the state list when he became a candidate for the Virginia Senate, the spokesman added.
The removal comes after Munoz cried foul when Frederick declined an all Spanish-speaking debate. In a press release Tuesday, Munoz released a list of companies that, he claims, chose to do business with Frederick because he was a minority (Frederick was born in Fairfax County but has claimed Hispanic descent as his mother is Columbian). Fredericks’ company also belonged to the minority business group.
Today, Frederick’s campaign said Munoz’s claims are false.
Every single “contract” Munoz’s campaign mentioned aren’t actually contracts as you and I know the term. They are contract vehicles, meaning that having those vehicles makes a company eligible to do business with those agencies, but doesn’t guarantee business. And, importantly, none of those “contracts” require DBE/MBE, etc. status to acquire those vehicles. They are basically saying that everyone who has access to those vehicles are minority-owned businesses, which they are not (companies like Northrup Grumman or CACI have these contract vehicles too). The leap they are making assumes that everyone and anyone who has any government contract has gotten it because of some sort of disadvantaged status.
-Jeff Frederick for Senate Campaign Manager Mick Bransfield
Frederick’s camp says GSX Stratigies is no longer apart of the minority-owned business program, not for political reasons, but because they graduated from the program and no longer have the need for it.
Frederick will face Munoz in a Republican Primary Election on Aug. 23. Both men are vying to represent Virginia’s 36h Senate seat which includes portions of southern Fairfax, eastern Prince William and northern Stafford counties.
The winner of the Primary will go on to face democratic incumbent Toddy Puller.
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Inspired by the devastating wildfires in California that have affected over 38,600 acres and led to evacuation orders for 88,000 residents as of Jan. 15, we reached out to Stafford County’s Fire and Rescue team to explore how they get ready for wildfires in this area.
A wildfire outbreak began in California on January 7, 2025 and continues as of Jan., 23. Over 47,000 acres have burned, with a new fire starting yesterday in Hughes County. Over 16,000 structures have burned due to wildfires in 2025.
Katie Brady, county fire department spokeswoman and Fire Life Safety Manager, clarified that “wildfire” is a broad blanket term. Stafford is likelier to experience “brush fires” than quick-moving wildfires that cause widespread destruction like California’s. Brushfires can range in size from a few feet to several acres and can be precursors to a larger wildfire capable of causing significant damage. Brushfires are more common when the area experiences drought conditions, like in 2024.
The disciplinary action taken against Patriot High School Principal Michael Bishop earlier this month is the latest chapter in a turbulent tenure at the school, Insidenova.com reports.
Bishop was placed on involuntary leave, the school announced Jan. 9.
The school division did not provide further details upon request from InsideNoVa because it is a “personnel matter,” said Diana Gulotta, the school system’s director of communications.
Fredericksburg police arrested Daquan Warren, 24, for a December 2024 shooting and investigated a January 20 shots fired and burglary incident on Townsend Boulevard. Stafford County saw assaults at Chatham Heights Road and North Stafford High School, a break-in on Ripley Road, and larcenies at Walmart, Buffalo Wild Wings, and an ABC store. In Prince William County, a strong-arm robbery on Balls Ford Road resulted in the arrest of Jose Fernando Martinez-Gonzalez. Authorities urge public assistance with investigations and provide tips hotlines for each jurisdiction.
Looking for a furry companion to brighten your days? Meet Harley, a 6 ½-year-old neutered male Domestic with short hair and a loving personality. Harley is ready to find his forever home and is available for adoption now.
Harley is waiting for you at the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter. This local shelter is dedicated to finding loving homes for animals in need.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
