The Prince William County Police Department is expressing gratitude to the community after another successful Polar Plunge event, which raised $130,000 for Special Olympics Virginia.

This article is FREE to read. Please Sign In or create a FREE account today. Make the smart choice for staying informed about your community. Thank you!

The fishing pier at Leesylvania State Park in Woodbridge has been closed due to significant structural damage caused by ice and extreme winter weather.

Repairs are needed across the entire structure, and park management is working diligently to complete the necessary fixes as quickly as possible.

“Most of the bracing has broken underneath, and the roof portion of the pier also has extensive damage to the pillars holding it up,” said Kenneth Ashdown, Leesylvania State Park Manager. “It is not safe for the pier to be open to the public at this time, and we hope to have this repaired as soon as possible.”

Although the fishing area is closed, the rest of the park will remain open for visitors. However, Ashdown noted that the repairs might impact the upcoming night fishing programs scheduled for March. Efforts are underway to find an alternative location for these events.

Visitors should check the park’s website for updates before planning their trips.

As a reminder, water temperatures in the Potomac River are currently around 35°F at the Little Falls Pump Station, as the National Weather Service observed. Those planning to fish or visit the river should be mindful of these cold conditions.

January 2025 has been a frigid month for the region, with temperatures significantly below normal. Overall, the average monthly temperature was 29.8°F, 4.5°F colder than usual. There were several days with low temperatures dropping below freezing, including a particularly frigid day on January 21, when the high was just 20°F, and the low dropped to 11°F, a departure of -18.4°F from normal.

Snowfall was also a significant factor, with 8.9 inches recorded for the month, further contributing to the cold conditions.

For more information about Leesylvania State Park, visit the park’s webpage.

Registration is open for the 2025 Polar Plunge at Leesylvania State Park in Woodbridge on February 15 to raise funds for Special Olympics Virginia. Participants can join individually or in teams, donate, or attend to cheer, with activities including live music, games, and a costume contest.

Press Release from Prince William County:

Are you brave enough to weather the February elements in support of a worthy cause? If so, registration has opened for the 2025 Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Virginia. This year’s event is at Leesylvania State Park, 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge (22191) on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2025.

The Prince William County Police Department is looking for hardy individuals – or teams of family, friends, co-workers, or organizations – willing to brave the cold temperatures on land, and in the water, to help raise money for Special Olympics.

Registration is open, and the public can participate in several ways:

• Take the “Plunge,” either as an individual or as a team that you put together with friends, neighbors, family or co-workers. Join Team PWCPD and start fundraising!
• Donate funds (if crazy, fun action is not your thing).
• Come out and cheer everyone on.

There’ll be live music, games, door prizes, food trucks, law enforcement displays and more, including a costume contest and, of course, a chilly plunge into the Potomac River! To register as an individual or as a team for “Team PWCPD,” and for more information, please visit: https://www.polarplunge.com/prince-william. This link also has information on donating to Team PWCPD.

The Polar Plunge benefits Special Olympics, an organization which is supported by law enforcement officers throughout the United States and in 45 countries.

Registration is open for the 2025 Polar Plunge at Leesylvania State Park on February 15, which benefits Special Olympics Virginia. Participants can join as individuals or teams, donate funds, or cheer on plungers, and the proceeds will support Special Olympics programs.

Press release:

This article is FREE to read. Please Sign In or create a FREE account today. Make the smart choice for staying informed about your community. Thank you!

From Special Olympics Virginia:

Ready to chill out for a great cause? Special Olympics Virginia’s annual Polar Plunge events are back, and it’s time to make a splash! Registration is now OPEN for the coolest, most exhilarating event series in the state. Get your swimsuit ready (and maybe some warm towels) because this year’s plunges are bigger, bolder and even more fun!

From the icy shores of the Atlantic Ocean to the frigid waters of lakes and pools statewide, thousands of brave participants will jump into freezing waters – all for the incredible athletes of Special Olympics Virginia. Whether you’re a first-time plunger or a seasoned veteran, this is your chance to be FREEZIN’ FOR A REASON!

EVENT LOCATIONS
You can plunge at multiple locations across Virginia – choose your own adventure!

Richmond – December 14, 2024: Take the plunge at Pocahontas Park! It’s an unforgettable experience right in the heart of RVA.
Northern Virginia / Mosaic District – January 25, 2025: Test your mettle at this pool-Plunge in the Mosaic District, an urban shopping center in Northern Virginia.

Cool School Challenge – February 7, 2025: Gather your classmates for this student-led Plunge in Virginia Beach. Spend a Friday at the beach in support of your school and your community!

Virginia Beach – February 8, 2025: The flagship event with the iconic oceanfront plunge, costume contests and live entertainment. It’s an all-day festival! Plus, don’t miss the 5K Run/Waddle and Pre-Plunge Party on the beach the Friday evening before (Feb. 7).

Northern Virginia / Leesylvania State Park – February 17, 2025: Go for the cold at our second Northern Virginia Plunge and make a splash in the cold river waters of the Potomac.

New River Valley – March 1, 2025: We’re diving into Blue Ridge waters at Bisset Park for a unique Plunge experience – perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

HOW TO REGISTER
Signing up is easy! Gather your team, your family or take the plunge solo – all we ask is that you bring your best attitude and a sense of adventure. Register online at www.polarplunge.com.

Registration is just the beginning – once you sign up, start fundraising to support Special Olympics Virginia’s 20,000+ athletes. Every dollar you raise helps provide year-round sports training, competition, and health and wellness programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

WHY PLUNGE?
Polar Plunge is more than just a chilly dip – it’s a heartwarming opportunity to make a difference in the lives of incredible athletes. Every plunge and every donation directly impacts the athletes of Special Olympics Virginia, empowering them to reach their full potential through the power of sports.

And did we mention the fun? There will be live music, costume contests, food trucks, incentives and more! Whether you’re plunging or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a day full of thrills and chills.

FREEZIN’ FOR A REASON – LET’S DO THIS!
So what are you waiting for? Bundle up, sign up and get ready to plunge! With events happening all across Virginia, there’s a Polar Plunge in every corner of Virginia. Register today and be part of the coolest event of the season.

For more information or to register, visit www.polarplunge.com. Freeze you there!

After her kayak overturned, a woman was rescued from the water near a fishing pier at Leesylvania State Park on Wednesday, July 3, 2024. The incident occurred about 2:30 p.m. at Freestone Point in Woodbridge.

The woman was in the water while a child stood on the shore and called for help. The caller told 9-1-1 operators the woman was floating out into the river, away from the shoreline. At 2:37 p.m., a fisherman picked up the woman in his boat and brought her to safety.

During the incident, the woman was accompanied by a child on the shore. The child watched as the fisherman rescued the woman from the water.

Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported.

The annual Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Virginia occurred on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Leesylvania State Park in Woodbridge.

Special Olympics Virginia spokeswoman Holly Claytor shared that the event saw participation from more than 280 plungers alongside approximately 400 spectators. In total, an impressive $140,000 was raised to support the cause.

Although adverse weather conditions prevented the scheduled 5K race, attendees still enjoyed various activities and amenities. A food truck offered sustenance, while Starbucks provided complimentary hot drinks and Wawa supplied snacks. Additionally, numerous exhibitors were present, offering diverse goods and services. Attendees could also indulge in the classic treat of s’mores.

Rosie’s Gaming Emporium emerged as the top partner for the event, demonstrating significant support for Special Olympics Virginia’s mission. Other notable contributors included Toyota of Woodbridge, Trade Reps, and Lightbridge Academy, all of whom made the event a success.

If you rely on us for local news and haven’t already, please support us by becoming a member!

• Join our Locals Only Membership Today! In a world filled with everyday heroes and extraordinary tales, Potomac Local is your trusted source for news and stories that matter in our community.
• Our Local Spotlight Membership is perfect for businesses and non-profits to increase sales, donations, and branding awareness in the community.

Multiple “First Day Hikes” are scheduled at Virginia State Parks in our area.

At Leesylvania State Park in Woodbridge, “Journey back in time on the Lee’s Woods Trail to discover hundreds of years of human history. Follow a range or volunteer on this guided hike to learn about the people, places, and events that make Leesylvania State Park unique. Expect a moderate walk of about 2 miles. The trail is not stroller-friendly. Meet at the trailhead for the Lee’s Woods Trail. Wear comfortable shoes and don’t forget a reusable water bottle! Children’s Discovery Hike at 11:30 am and 2:30 pm – Potomac Trail. Families join us on an nature adventure through our most popular trail. We will have binoculars, magnifying glasses, bug catching tools and more gear to help children connect to nature and discovery the fun of being outdoors. “The trail is stroller friendly. Please meet at the visitor center and wear comfortable shoes and and don’t forget a reusable water bottle!”

At Widewater State Park in Stafford County, “Begin your new year journey with a Ranger-led hike on Holly Marsh Trail! Starting at the Visitor’s Center, a Ranger will talk to your group about the local wildlife and their winter habitats while guiding you through the forest, past wetlands, and down to the Potomac River; and back again! The hike is 1.8 miles round-trip and the trail is easy-going for children and adults. Be sure to dress warmly, wear the appropriate shoes, and don’t forget to pack water and snacks. “There are three start times available for this hike: 9:00am, 11:00am, and 1:00pm. Registration is FREE, but space is limited to 15 participants per hike. You can sign up for one of the three hike times here.”

“First Day Hikes have become a tradition for many people and it is the perfect opportunity to get some exercise, explore outdoors and connect with nature all while enjoying the park’s unique beauty this season…The activities for First Day Hikes vary from park to park, but they all aim to create a fun experience for the whole family. Savor the beauty of the natural, cultural and historical resources Virginia State Parks offer, and be inspired to take advantage of these local treasures throughout the year,” Virginia State Parks state in a press release. “Parking is free at all Virginia State Park locations on Jan. 1, 2024, and visitors to each park will receive a celebratory First Day Hike sticker while supplies last.”

Prince William police: “Are you brave enough to weather the February elements in support of a worthy cause? If so, registration has opened for the 2024 Polar Plunge to benefit Special Olympics Virginia. This year’s event is at Leesylvania State Park, 2001 Daniel K. Ludwig Dr., Woodbridge (22191) on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024.”

“The Prince William County Police Department is looking for hardy individuals – or teams of family, friends, co-workers, or organizations – willing to brave the cold temperatures on land, and in the water, to help raise money for Special Olympics.”