MANASSAS, Va. — A total of 24 teams competed in a 3-on-3 basketball tournament on Saturday for a recovering police officer who was hit by a car by someone who was texting while driving, police said.
Aside from bragging rights, teams participated in the tourney and shootout challenge at the Boys and Girls Club in Manassas to show support for Officer Heather Munsterman, and to draw attention to a nationwide problem: texting while driving.
Munsterman on July 13 was struck by a driver that police said was texting while driving as she was conducting a routine traffic stop in Manassas. She suffered fractures to her ankle and pelvic area, a dislocated shoulder and a concussion along with severe bruising across her entire body, and is currently undergoing rehab.
Munsterman’s family, fellow police officers, friends, volunteers and supporters came out to celebrate Saturday’s event, which included a challenge to claim “King of the Court”, moon bounces for younger participants, face painters, a concession stand and a variety of vendor booths; all eager to donate their time and resources for a great cause.
Delegate Richard Anderson, R-Prince William, also attended the event. Anderson is the author of the recently passed texting while driving bill that makes it a primary offense to send a text message while behind the wheel of a vehicle.
Additional attendees were Harry Parrish II, Manassas City Mayor, Lawrence Hughes, Manassas City Manager, Douglas Keen, Manassas City Police Chief, George Logan, G Team Sports, Inc., Glenn Vickers, Regional Director for the Prince William County / Manassas Boys & Girls Club; all who reiterated the message of safe driving practices and applauded the courage and strong-will of a devoted officer.
The event was hosted by Rocky Parrish, a local radio personality and longtime co-host of the “Kevin & Rock Show.”. Parrish acknowledges the universal problem and states,
“What happened to Heather is unfortunate. I wouldn’t want that to happen to me or anybody else. I’m definitely going to be mindful of that,” said Parrish.
Manassas Police Chief Douglas Keen was encouraged by the days’ events.
“This is the essence of Manassas; when things like this happen the community comes together,” said Keen.
He is optimistic that the community will also take with it a message.
“Let that phone call or text message wait. Pull over and take the call if you need to,” explains Keen.
Musterman’s accident is one that could have been avoided, but thankfully she is recovering.
“We are all extremely lucky to have Heather with us,” he said.
The winning team for the fundraising event was Makafui Dogbatse, and the winner of the shootout challenge was Tyc Snow.
All proceeds raised at the event benefit Heather Munsterman, injured in the line of duty.
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This week, we’re thrilled to host Dr. Babur Lateef, Chairman of the Prince William County School Board, and Jennifer Wall, Gainesville District Representative, for an engaging discussion on the state of education in Prince William County on the next Potomac Local News Podcast.
Rania Lateef, a senior at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School and the Governor’s School @ Innovation Park, daughter of Prince William School Board Chairman Babur Lateef, has been named one of 40 finalists in the prestigious 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS). Selected from nearly 2,500 applicants nationwide, Rania is recognized for her groundbreaking research on the effects of artificial light and circadian disruption on biobehavioral systems in Drosophila melanogaster. Her work highlights the impact of sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances on physical and mental health.
Rania credited her success to the supportive academic community of Prince William County Public Schools, her teachers Stephanie Brown and Dr. Alexis Patanarut, and her unique opportunities at GS@IP. As a finalist, she has already won $27,000 and will compete for additional awards totaling over $1.8 million during a week-long event in Washington, D.C., in March 2025. Rania’s journey emphasizes the power of passion and commitment in achieving meaningful scientific discoveries.
The Woodbridge District invites residents to join a Community Update Town Hall Meeting hosted by Supervisor Margaret Angela Franklin. This virtual event offers an opportunity for residents to stay informed about the latest developments and initiatives in the community.
Details of the Town Hall:
Date: January 29, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Virtual (via Zoom)
Residents can participate in the meeting by joining the Zoom session.
On January 24, 2025, at 12:25 a.m., Sergeant E.E. West responded to a single-vehicle crash at the McDonald’s on Wonder Road. An intoxicated driver, identified as Juan Gomez Alvarez, 38, of North Carolina, entered the drive-thru at a high rate of speed, struck a sign, and came to rest at an awkward angle, blocking the lane.
Gomez Alvarez displayed red, glassy eyes and had a strong odor of alcohol. The investigation revealed that he had been convicted of DUI in New York just the previous day, making this his second offense in five years. He was charged with DUI second offense, refusal, and destruction of property and was taken to Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.
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.
