Nearly 13,000 people hit the ice last winter for the second year of Kent Skates, presented by AMETEK, from November through February.
The free outdoor ice rinklocated on a section of East Erie Street between the PARTA parking deck and the 窪蹋勛圖厙 Hotel and Conference Centeris a key initiative between 窪蹋勛圖厙 and Kent partners to create a more vibrant place to live, work and play.
The rink was created through a partnership among the city of Kent, 窪蹋勛圖厙 Hotel and Conference Center, Kent Area Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Kent and 窪蹋勛圖厙. Local businesses and the Destination Kent Convention and Visitors Bureau are also sponsors, and University Facilities Management staff keep the rink open and operating during the season.
This is a true example of what is possible when so many people come together focused on a community asset, says Dana Lawless-Andric, PhD, 窪蹋勛圖厙s associate vice president of University Outreach and Engagement.
After a slide around the rink, visitors can warm up in Kents shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, galleries and many local events.
A vibrant and healthy downtown benefits everyone, and Kent Skates has played an importantand funrole in strengthening our local economy and sense of community, says , interim executive director for the Kent Area Chamber of Commerce.
One of the rinks enthusiastic sponsorsand userswas Amy Mucha, MEd 16, owner and chief artist of , a cake pop bakery that opened a shop in downtown Kent this April. I cannot tell you how much our family loved it this winter, she says. And I saw so many of my non-Kent friends coming into town to try it out as well.
Phil Soencksen, BS 89