MANASSAS, Va. – The Rotary Club of Manassas welcomed local police leadership to its weekly meeting to honor one of the department’s finest: Master Police Officer Kentalle Gaines.
During a recent luncheon at City Tavern in Old Town Manassas, Assistant Chief and Captain Trey Lawler introduced MPO Gaines and presented her with a Rotary recognition plaque. Gaines was recognized for receiving the department’s top accolades—the Sergeant Conner Memorial Award and Officer of the Year.
According to Lawler, MPO Gaines has played a key role in several high-stakes arrests in Manassas, including tracking down a murder suspect and apprehending an individual connected to a series of car thefts across the city. Her commitment to public safety goes beyond patrol duties; she completed a demanding instructor course with the International Police Mountain Bike Association (IPMBA) in Arkansas and later helped the Manassas Police Department establish its first certified Police Cyclist Course. The course launched in October and is now part of the department’s training program.
The Rotary Club of Manassas, a long-standing civic group in the city, meets every Wednesday at noon at City Tavern. The club regularly supports local service efforts and recognizes those who make a difference in the community. Anyone interested in learning more about the club is encouraged to reach out and attend a meeting.
The Rotary Club of Manassas hosted its 25th Annual Reverse Raffle on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at Bishop Russell Hall, 9290 Stonewall Road in Manassas. The highly anticipated event successfully raised over $20,000, benefitting Connections Family Resource Center, Medical Missionaries, and The Knights of Columbus – George Brent Council.
The evening featured a dinner catered by The Bone BBQ and honored Rotarian William “Bill” Burton, a dedicated club member since 1983, who sadly passed away on December 11, 2024. Attendees paid tribute to Burton’s contributions and his legacy within the Rotary community.
Exciting Moments from the Event
The raffle concluded with four big winners splitting a $7,500 prize, marking an fun end to an evening filled with fun, generosity, and community spirit. The event saw an crowd of 160 attendees, including local business leaders and community supporters.
A highlight of the night was the silent auction, made possible by generous donations from local restaurants, businesses, and individuals. A particularly special contribution came from Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin and his fiancée, who donated two signed jerseys and a signed game ball from a playoff victory over the Detroit Lions.
Upcoming Rotary Club Events
The Rotary Club of Manassas remains dedicated to fundraising and community engagement. The organization is gearing up for two major upcoming events:
- 31st Annual Golf Tournament – Monday, June 9th, at Evergreen Country Club. For details, contact [email protected].
3rd Annual Cornhole Tournament – Sunday, September 28th, at The Salisbury Center, Manassas, VA. For information, email [email protected].
Get Involved with the Manassas Rotary Club
The Rotary Club of Manassas thrives on community involvement and welcomes new members passionate about service. Those interested in joining or learning more about the club’s mission can visit manassasrotary.org.
To date, the Manassas Rotary Club has contributed over $750,000 to community and global initiatives, with continued support from its dedicated members ensuring that number grows each year. Through fundraising events like the Reverse Raffle, the club remains committed to making a lasting impact on the community and beyond.
The Manassas Rotary Club is gearing up to host its Second Annual Cornhole Tournament on September 29, 2024, at The Salisbury Center in Manassas.
This event promises to be a fun-filled day for participants of all ages while supporting a worthy cause—Willing Warriors, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to providing therapeutic retreats for wounded, ill, and injured service members and their families.
