Busy skaters enjoy new rink season at civic center

By P.J. GLISSON

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Ironwood - The Pat O'Donnell Civic Center in Ironwood was bustling with people Saturday as dozens of skaters happily circled the rink over and over again, some going forward, some backward.

Many of them glided by in twos while talking together. Younger participants sometimes stopped to engage in video chat waves, a quick text or phone call, or group selfies. Now and then, someone attempted an artistic flourish on the ice.

Kaytlin Jeffery of Ironwood said she uses the center occasionally. "I've been a dancer for a long time," she said, adding that the ice provides another venue on which to practice "cool stuff."

Among many parents on the ice was Stacy Saari of Ironwood. Her daughter, Emily, 8, was teaching her brother, Nicholas, 5, how to skate.

"We get a lot of families," said Billie Jo Boraski, who was working in admissions and concessions. She said patrons generally come from the regions of Hurley, Ironwood, Bessemer and Wakefield, although she added the holiday period draws people "from all over."

Boraski said 71 persons had paid admission to use the ice on Saturday evening, but she said additional family members accompanied them to watch from the lobby area.

While sitting at a counter directly outside the rink, Amanda Sleight of Ironwood was gazing through a window while her husband, Nathan, skated with their two children, Ava, 11, and Jada, 8.

"Usually, about once a week I take them," said Sleight of her daughters, who began skating several years ago.

Travis Collins, who also works at the rink, said rental skates are available, but not lessons. Rather, he said of patrons, "They just go for it."

Collins said he used to play hockey when he was in sixth grade and was part of the area Polar Bear team that won state honors in 2011.

Now, he works part-time at the center while also attending Gogebic Community College. One of his responsibilities, after every skating session, is to use a Zamboni to "resurface" the rink, which he said is 200 by 85 feet. He also sharpens skates and helps with admissions and concessions.

Rink users appeared to regard the concessions stand as a welcome reward after a crisp run on the ice. Items such as pizza, candy, chips, and beverages were well received. "They love the pickles," said Boraski of the giant-size specimens. "We sold a big jar tonight."

The city-owned center is on the GCC campus and offers open skating at various times through the week. For more information, call 906-932-0602.