Welcome to our latest recap of Potomac Local News. We’re excited to share some of the top stories that are gaining attention on our site. From political color controversies to rave reviews for a local BBQ joint, here’s what’s making headlines.

Political Color Controversy in Manassas:
One of the most talked-about stories involves a heated debate over campaign colors in the Manassas mayoral election. GOP candidate Xiao Yin “Tang” Byrom is challenging incumbent Michelle Davis Younger. A Facebook post showing Tang wearing pink and green, colors associated with Vice President Kamala Harris’s sorority, sparked criticism from the Manassas and Manassas Park Cities Democratic Committee. This story has become our most-read article of the day, highlighting the unexpected turns in local politics.

Wild Wayland’s BBQ:
More delicious news: Wild Wayland’s BBQ in Stafford is receiving rave reviews for its generous portions and tasty offerings, from brisket to smoked turkey. Posted by our Fredericksburg Regional Editor, Kelly Sienkowski, this story has garnered over 100 likes and shares on Facebook. If you’ve visited Wild Wayland’s BBQ, we encourage you to share your experiences.

Animal Shelter Overcrowding:
We also reported on the overcrowding issues at regional animal shelters. Captain Bice from the Stafford Animal Shelter discussed the challenges they face, including the financial strain on pet owners, which leads to more surrenders. The shelter is urgently seeking volunteers and new homes for the animals.

We value our local businesses and communities. If you have a news story or see news happening, please get in touch with us at [email protected] or text us at 571-989-1695. Your contributions help us continue covering the news that matters to you.

Thank you for staying informed with Potomac Local News. We appreciate your support and look forward to bringing you more stories that impact our community.

The mayoral campaign in Manassas has begun, and Democrats have launched their first attack, focusing on the shirt color of the Republican candidate, Xiao Yin "Tang" Byrom.

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The Donald Trump campaign will open a field office in Manassas on the same day as an office in Stafford County. In 2020, President Joe Biden won Manassas with 25% more votes than Trump. He also performed well in neighboring Prince William County, winning the county by 27%.

Press release:

Location Name: Trump Force 47 Manassas City Office

Address: 9113 Church St. Manassas, VA 20110

Join us for an exciting event with the Northern Virginia Trump Team as we celebrate the grand opening of our Manassas City Trump Force 47 office! Be a part of the team and get trained to become an official Trump Force 47 captain at 9113 Church St. Manassas, VA 20110. Connect with fellow supporters, and gear up for a pivotal role in the campaign. Don’t miss this opportunity to make a difference and help ensure President Trump wins Virginia and the nation. Free Trump Captain Training will be provided to those who still need it after the launch. See you there!

The Donald Trump for President campaign will open a field office in Stafford County. The event, titled "Grand Opening of the Stafford Trump Force 47 Headquarters," invites supporters to attend the opening.

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As Nov. 5 (Election Day) approaches, Prince William County’s Office of Elections is looking for residents to serve as election officers.

Applications are due this Friday (Aug. 2) to be eligible to serve on Election Day. Officers are responsible for setting up the precinct, checking in voters, distributing ballots, accurately report results and close the polling place at 7 p.m.

“Elections wouldn’t happen without people to run them,” Prince William County Office of Elections Spokeswoman Thalia Simpson said. “Our office only has 16 full-time employees, so with 103 polling places in Prince William County, our election officers are literally what allows this to work.”

Officers receive $200 for working the day with Spanish speakers receiving a $25 bonus. Officers also receive a free “American Hero” t-shirt and a commemorative pin.

According to the county’s website, these are the qualifications for an officer:

All election officers must:

• Be a registered voter of the Commonwealth of Virginia;
• Not hold an elected position, or be the employee of an elected official;
• Be available to attend all mandatory training; and
• Be available from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Election Day without leaving the polling place. 

More information can be found on the county’s website for elections. 

Below,  you'll find the the latest edition of our podcast, featuring a detailed conversation with Manassas City Councilwoman Theresa Coates Ellis. Hosted by me, Potomac Local Publisher Uriah Kiser, this dialogue sheds light on pivotal changes and the latest developments in Manassas. From educational policies to school board elections and community safety, Councilwoman Ellis provides an in-depth look at the strategic decisions shaping the future of our community.

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At a press conference Thursday night, Derrick Anderson, the Republican candidate for Virginia’s 7th Congressional District, spoke about the riots at Union Station on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, where pro-Hamas protestors defaced federal monuments and burned the U.S. flag. Anderson, an Army Green Beret, drew on his military service to underscore the gravity of the protestors’ actions and the impact on national unity.

“Hamas is coming” was scrawled in red across the face of the Columbus Monument at Union Station, alongside slogans, such as “free Gaza” and “all Zionists are bastards.” The riots coincided with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s address to Congress.

Anderson described the flag burning as a personal affront. “As someone who’s a former Green Beret who spent over 10 years in the U.S. Army, someone who did over 150 funerals in Arlington National Cemetery where I laid that flag on our service members before their family members saw them laid to rest, it hit hard to me, it hit incredibly hard,” he said. He recounted his experiences in Afghanistan, including the loss of five of his own soldiers and returning home with their flag-draped coffins for their last fight home. Anderson emphasized that the desecration of the flag at Union Station symbolized a broader disunity within the country.

Anderson criticized his opponent Eugene Vindman for remaining silent in the wake of the riots, calling for greater transparency and action from political leaders. “My opponent has been silent until a few minutes ago, but that’s a day late and a dollar short. It’s time for leaders to act and say what they mean. Transparency is important, and the folks here in the 7th Congressional District deserve transparency, they don’t need a politician that waits to see where the political headwinds blow before standing up for something” he asserted.

Vindman posted to his X account one minute before Anderson began his scheduled press conference, writing, “Violence and destruction are not peaceful protests; it’s not about left or right, it’s about right and wrong. And it was wrong when rioters stormed the Capitol on January 6, and it’s wrong when anti-Israel protesters assaulted police officers and spray-painted Hamas slogans on Washington, DC monuments. I ask my opponent to join me in calling out all forms of violence immediately.”

Violence and destruction are not peaceful protests; it’s not about left or right, it’s about right and wrong.

And it was wrong when rioters stormed the Capitol on January 6 and it’s wrong when anti-Israel protesters assault police officers and spray paint Hamas slogans on… https://t.co/LRYdVMDXQc

— Eugene Vindman (@YVindman) July 25, 2024

Condemnation of Pro-Hamas Support
The candidate also highlighted the role of foreign influence in the protests, referencing reports that Iran had been funding some of these demonstrations. “Our enemies are watching—Iran, China, Russia. In fact, we just saw reports that Iran has been funding some of these protests that are happening in Washington, D.C. and continue to happen,” he said.

Congressman Rob Wittman’s Support
Congressman Rob Wittman (R), who represented part of Prince Willliam County until redistricting in 2021, who joined Anderson at the press conference, echoed his sentiments. Wittman condemned the burning of the U.S. flag and the display of pro-Hamas and Palestinian flags, describing these actions as disrespectful and un-American. “It was disrespectful. It was disloyal to who we are as a nation. Those things can’t be allowed to occur without speaking out against those efforts,” Wittman stated.

Wittman’s district’s boundaries shifted out of Northern Virginia and further southeast, toward Virginia’s Northern Neck and Williamsburg.

First Amendment and Moral Rights
Anderson reiterated his support for the First Amendment but stressed the difference between the legal right to protest and the moral rightness of actions. “While you might have the right to do something, it doesn’t necessarily make it right. And that’s something that we’ve lost as a country,” he said.

Accountability and Prosecution
When asked about the potential for prosecutions following the riots, Anderson noted the lack of specific laws against flag desecration but highlighted other illegal activities, such as graffiti and assaults on law enforcement. He emphasized the need for accountability and consequences for breaking the law.
Call for Unity

Anderson emphasized the need for national unity and common sense throughout his remarks. He called on the residents of the 7th Congressional District to demand transparency and accountability from their leaders and to work towards a more united country. “We see hope. We see a future for our country. But it takes all of us coming together and being unified,” Anderson concluded.

Anderson faces Vindman in the November 5 General Election. Early voting for that election begins on September 20, 2024, at local voter registrar’s offices. Some of the jurisdictions included in the district include eastern Prince William County, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, King George countries, and Fredericksburg city.

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As we get closer to the start of early voting for the Fall 2024 election, Potomac Local News is dedicated to informing the community about candidates vying for one of three open seats on the Manassas City Council and the mayor’s seat. To help voters make an informed decision, we are continuing a new feature series, “One-Question Manassas City Council Candidate Survey.” This series will run throughout the campaign season, offering insights into each candidate’s stand on key issues affecting our city. Our first one, which ran last week, focused on affordable housing.

The candidates are given 10 days to respond to a Google Form, and their answers will be compiled into a single post on PotomacLocalNews.com. This format lets voters quickly compare the candidates’ views on critical issues, helping them make an informed choice come election day.

Today's Topic: Budget and taxes. The candidates were asked: With the recent discussions around budget priorities and potential tax increases, what are your budget priorities, and how would you work to balance fiscal responsibility with the needs of the community? Mayoral candidates Xiao-Yin “Tang” Byrom (R)

As a business owner of 25 years, budgeting comes very natural to me. I must stay within budget and provide excellent service to my customers. The city should as well, and not raise taxes that put an additional burden on the citizens. Of all the things the mayor does, none are more important than being fiscally responsible and upholding the trust you put in me to be a good steward of your tax dollars. I feel budget priorities fall into two categories. “NEEDS” and “WANTS” The “NEEDS," like water, sewer, electricity, police, fire, rescue, education, transportation and rainy-day funds, top the list. In these vital areas, it is important that we have the best equipment, the best managers and the best trained staff possible. We should not be second best to anybody anywhere. These are investments in our community I would not waiver on as your mayor. The “WANTS” are the areas where our citizens really get a chance to weigh in. Do you want to allocate your resources to more sidewalks, parks, arts, tourism, recreation, etc.? My preferences are not important next to the wants of the citizens I represent, like you. Come budget season, elected leaders should do more listening than talking. I promise I will make your voice heard.

Byrom, the owner of Tang’s Bridal and Alterations in the Canterbury Village shopping center at 8675 Sudley Road, opened her Manassas store as an alteration shop in 1999. She eventually expanded her business to include bridal and formal wear. Her business employs 17 people. Michelle Davis Younger (D-Incumbent)

NO RESPONSE

Davis-Younger is seeking a second term as mayor, after being elected in 2020. She owns and operates a Human Resources Consulting firm located in Historic Downtown Manassas called The1ForHR, LLC, which focuses on career coaching and resume writing. City Council candidates Lynn Forkell Greene (R)

Our city continues to face multiple challenges: improving schools, enhancing public safety and investing in infrastructure. As your City Council member, I will work collaboratively to find the right balance, ensuring our tax dollars are used effectively and transparently. Community input is crucial; decisions should echo the collective voice of our residents, guiding our choices rather than merely following procedure. Every voice matters. I am committed to advocating for policies that benefit all residents of Manassas City. In 2022, I stood with many residents and proudly voted for a 15% tax reduction/refund on personal property taxes, which was ultimately unanimously approved by our City Council demonstrating my leadership and dedication to providing much-needed relief and fairness to our community. I will strive to harmonize the cadence and number of simultaneous long-term projects, reduce unnecessary spending, and address organizational strategy for long-term success and sustainable growth. Let's continue our efforts to build a more prosperous Manassas City, where our tax dollars foster the well-being and equitable growth of our entire community.

Lynn Forkell Greene is seeking to regain a seat on City Council, where she served for 14 months, from fall 2021 to December 2022. Forkell Green served the remainder of Davis-Younger’s term, a seat vacated when Davis-Younger was elected mayor. She is an administrative director for a nonprofit. Forkell Greene and her husband share four adult children and three grandchildren. Before announcing her re-election bid, Forkell Green was a freelance reporter covering city issues for Potomac Local News. Ashley Hutson (D)

The city’s budget must consider the needs of the community today while investing in the vision of the community 25+ years from now. Investments in the future are not only in infrastructure but people. I would prioritize investment in our schools and social/safety services. As we continue the search for a city manager and housing coordinator, I want to ensure the city has the best people working to address the needs of our residents. We must invest in our schools to retain great teachers and strive for graduating seniors to be prepared to join the workforce or continue education. Upcoming budget cycles will be especially exciting as the City of Manassas will receive its first revenue from data centers. I hope the city is able to maintain or reduce the tax rate while investing in community vitality. Through my service on the Community Advisory Committee to the National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board, I’ve been involved in initiatives examining the region’s travel habits and traffic struggles, balanced with assessing achievable solutions. The Greater Prince William region is predominately car-dependent, but because Manassas is geographically small and dense, investments in multi-use development, multi-modal transportation and regional connectivity will serve our residents long into the future. As such, I am proud to see Manassas earn the distinction of “Bicycle Friendly Community” and I’m eager to see the impacts of the growth of Manassas Airport. Since the beginning of my campaign, I have been asking residents and business owners what they like about Manassas and what they would change. Once elected to Council, I intend to listen to residents and contemplate their needs while seeking achievable solutions.

Hutson is seeking her first term on City Council. She is the director of Member Engagement of the Heavy Construction Contractors Association in Manassas. Hutson has served on the Manassas Board of Building Code Appeals, Washington Council of Governments Transportation Planning Board and Community Advisory Committee. She graduated from Osbourn Park High School and Christopher Newport University. Stephen Kent (R)

The 2022 Community Satisfaction Survey is a good indicator of how Manassas residents are feeling. Your priorities are my priorities. Residents are least satisfied with the quality of public education (41%) and the flow of traffic within the city (38%). I want to see the Godwin Extension from Sudley to Compton Avenue built, reducing traffic on 28 and improving walkability in downtown. I will work with our friends at the Board of County Supervisors to make sure this happens and Manassas is less stuck in endless traffic. School quality can be radically improved by investing $25.50 per student for a partnership with Yondr, a phone-storage technology company that is helping school districts create cell-phone free educational environments. It's having a hugely positive effect on performance in core academic subjects and behavioral reports. Manassas can do this for grades 6-12 about $100,000, less than what we spend in a year on weapon detection devices inside Osbourn High School. I will make sure th School Board has the funding they need to include phone pouches and tools for implementing device storage safely during the day. This will improve school quality and honor our citizen's tax dollar investment in education. On taxes, the current City Council voted in June not to lower property taxes. Homeowners can expect to pay about $266 more this year on average for their tax bill. I think that is unacceptable while the people of Manassas are being crushed by inflation in every other part of their budget. The arrival of data centers in Manassas in not popular, but if they are going to go up and it is happening, they should benefit the people of Manassas by reducing the tax burden. Renters would benefit too. When landlords costs go up, so does the rent. Manassas is doing well financially, thanks to market forces and national trends pushing investment and workers out of the D.C. area and into our area. This is good news and a better time than ever for a tax cut.

Kent is seeking his first term on City Council. He is an author and public relations professional. He and his wife, Melony “Mel” Kent, share a child. Mel Kent ran for the city school board in 2022. Mark Wolfe (D-Incumbent)

My priority has always been to build and maintain the quality of life in Manassas while keeping taxes as low as practicable. In all my years of service, every member of Council has taken this responsibility of budgeting the public money very seriously. It is important to remember that no one person determines the budget, it takes a compromise of at least four Council members. That is four members with varying perspectives and priorities about Manassas. But the most important thing to remember in our budgeting is that there is no free lunch. To do more, costs more. If you say that want more police officers, more street paving or higher teacher pay, then that money has to come from increased revenue (higher taxes) or cutting an existing service. If someone is promising to lower your taxes, ask them which specific cuts in services they would propose to the rest of the Council. Over the years, the political move of a few Council members has been to agree with the proposed changes to the budget from the service side (more firemen, adding a recreation program, etc). Then, after months of work, state that they want a flat tax bill and that we should cut millions from the draft budget. And worse, not offering any proposals as to what to cut, expecting the rest of the Council to do their work. They close by voting against the tax rate (your bill) while they take credit for the increased services delivered to the residents of Manassas. It might be good politics in some circles but it is certainly bad governance. Our citizens deserve better.

Wolfe is seeking a fourth term on City Council. He has lived in the City of Manassas since 1990. Wolfe has executive leadership experience in the corporate and nonprofit sectors and is currently the chief operating officer of MovieComm. Amy, his wife of 36 years, is the artistic director and CEO of Manassas Ballet Theatre. They have two children, both of whom graduated from Osbourn High School. Tom Osina (D-Incumbent)

My budget priorities are continued economic prosperity by decreasing the tax rate yet providing necessary funding to retain city, fire, police and EMT employees, supporting extra money for teacher salaries, developing an ongoing repair/rebuilding program of school buildings and making sure that recent property purchases are strategically planned to give sound growth opportunities in the future. Over the next four years additional budget items that are on the horizon include a parking garage at City Hall, Fire/Rescue Station 1 at the old Marsteller site, renovation of Public Works & Utilities facility, substation maintenance improvements, new Air Traffic Control Tower at the airport and sewer capacity expansion to keep up with growth. My frequent visits to various neighborhoods to hear resident concerns, attending various functions to learn of business concerns, listening to different community conversations events along with semi-annual Town Halls are the major ways I stay aware of the pulse of our city. Of course, I have publicized my email address [email protected] and cell number 571-621-4069 as ways to reach me as well.

Osina is seeking his second term on City Council. He and his husband have lived in the Georgetown South community for more than 20 years. He is the father of two grown children. Robyn Williams (R)

As a member of the Manassas City School Board, I am familiar with the challenges inherent in creating a balanced budget that meets current obligations while planning for the future. On Manassas City Council, the priorities I consider critical to the quality of life of our citizens are, a rigorous and vital primary and secondary education system, public safety and crime reduction, and retention of our valuable civil servants. In my recent conversations with constituents, education and crime are often cited as serious problems which impacts their quality of life. Our Manassas City budget must ensure that the salary and benefit package we offer to police, first responders, and teachers is commensurate with that offered by our neighbors. High-level positions in the city remain vacant, which suggests that our current budget priorities may require reassessment. It is essential to review and identify areas where budget reductions can be made to optimize our financial resources effectively. Finally, budgets must respect the taxpayer. Manassas City is taking in plenty of revenue to meet its obligations to our citizens without increasing taxes on them, especially at a time in which inflation is taking a huge bite out of their household budgets.

Williams is seeking her first term on City Council. She has served two terms on the Manassas City School Board. Williams holds a bachelor's of science in economics from George Mason University. He found her background in finance and economics valuable on the MCPS School Board, in addition to her more than 10 years as a broker/owner of Redstone Realty, specializing in residential real estate. Williams’ public service in Manassas began with the Beautification Committee, where she served as a member and eventually chairperson. She also volunteered as a teacher assistant at Haydon Elementary for several years and taught modules in schools through the Prince William Soil and Water Conservation Department. Stay tuned as we continue this series with topics such as power outages, parking issues, city management and staff retention, budget and taxes, public school performance, and data centers. We aim to provide a comprehensive look at each candidate’s platform, ensuring voters have all the information they need to make a thoughtful decision. We hope this series will engage the community and foster a more informed electorate. Check back for new insights and updates from your Manassas City Council candidates. Early voting starts  Sept. 21, and Election Day is Nov. 5. Be sure to subscribe to our FREE news email. Each week, we will pose a single question to all candidates running for the Manassas City Council.