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July/August 2003 Also Inside: How to Market Your Facility to Tourists Small Town Ice Arenas of the Future Kids on Thin Ice Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena

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July/August 2003

Also Inside:How to Market Your Facility to Tourists

Small Town Ice Arenas of the FutureKids on Thin Ice

Jamestown SavingsBank Ice ArenaJamestown SavingsBank Ice Arena

Ice Arena Institute of Management

Management Education and Certification Program

Join the industry leaders of tomorrow and learn with the best at iAIM.

In response to industry needsand in fulfillment of its

mission, ISI offers the first comprehensive

management educationand certification pro-gram for ice arenamanagers, operators and programmers.

Governed by a Board ofRegents, under the direc-tion of Jack Vivian, PhD.,the goal of iAIM is to provide industry-specificeducation to enhance the

knowledge, efficiency and effectiveness of each graduate.

Instructors are selected from among the industry's most knowledgeable and

experienced practitioners.

What you learn at iAIM could make the difference in the success of your career

and your facility.

®

Oct 12 - 17, 2003Oglebay Resort and Conference CenterWheeling, West Virginia

Presented by the Ice Skating Institute

For more information, call 972-735-8800 or visit www.skateisi.org

Is There a Glass Ceiling in the IceArena Industry? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8by Jack Vivian, PhD

How to Maximize Sales Opportunities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14by Susan Snyder-Davis

Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena . . .18by Sara Meyerdierks Hillgrove

Ice Arena Mold Contamination . . . . . . .26by Todd Bradley

How Coaches’ Behavior Impacts Athletes’ Motivation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30by Tina Syer

PublisherIce Skating Institute

EditorDianne Powell

Editorial AdvisorsPeter MartellPatti Feeney

Print Production andAdvertising Sales Manager

Carol Jackson

Art DirectorCindy Winn Livingston

ContributorsJack Vivian, Ph.D.

Susan Snyder-DavisTodd Bradley

Tina SyerSara Meyerdierks Hillgrove

The ISI EDGE (USPS 017-078,ISSN 1522-4651) is publishedbimonthly; January/February,March/April, May/June,July/August,September/October,November/December; by theIce Skating Institute, 17120 N.Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 140, Dallas,TX 75248-1187. AnnualSubscription Rate is $24.00 peryear. Periodicals postage paid atDallas, TX, and at additionalmailing offices.

POSTMASTER NOTE: Sendaddress changes to ISI EDGE,c/o The Ice Skating Institute,17120 N. Dallas Pkwy., Ste.140, Dallas, TX, 75248-1187.Printed in the U.S.A.

Subscriptions availablethrough membership only.

©2003 by the Ice SkatingInstitute. Reproduction inwhole or in part is prohibitedunless expressly authorized inwriting by publisher. All rightsreserved. Opinions expressedby contributors do not neces-sarily represent the views ofthe Ice Skating Institute, thepublisher or the advertisers.Submissions of manuscripts,materials, photographs, andartwork are made at mailer’srisk and must include self-addressed envelope with suffi-cient postage for return. Noresponsibility will be assumedfor unsolicited materials. ISIreserves the right to edit mate-rial submitted for content andspace consideration.

volume 6, number 2

D E P A R T M E N T SCROSSCUTS News and Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

CALENDAR ISI Endorsed Competitions, Shows/Exhibitions . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

ICE ARENA ASSOCIATIONS NEWS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

GETTING CONNECTED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

ADVERTISERS INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

ISIA EDUCATION FOUNDATION REPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

AND ANOTHER THING … Commentary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

A L S O I N T H I S I S S U E

New Judges Manual Available . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Classified Ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

ISI Fall Seminars Planned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Tough Times Require Strong Leadership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

2003 ISI World Recreational Team Championship Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Coaches Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

ISI Electronic Communications Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Judges Pass Certification Update Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

contents

Jamestown Savings Bank Ice ArenaPhoto courtesy of Jon Elder Productions

september/october 2003

the edge september/october 20034

Dedicated to providing leadership, education, and services to the

ice skating industry.

ice skating institute17120 N. Dallas Parkway, Suite 140

Dallas, TX 75248-1187Phone: (972) 735-8800

Fax: (972) 735-8815e-mail: [email protected]

www.skateisi.org

isi international headquarters staffExecutive Director

Peter Martell Managing Director,

Member Programs and ServicesPatti FeeneyController

Karen SchafferMembership Coordinator

Kimberley RusselleEditor

Dianne PowellAdvertising Sales and

Print Production ManagerCarol Jackson

National Events Coordinator andSkating Program Director

Barb YackelAdministrative Assistant

Kathy ChaseArt Director

Cindy Winn LivingstonInformation Services Coordinator

Jeff AndersonSponsorship Sales Manager

Stuart SedranskyTelephone 972-735-8800

isi officersPresident Jim Lange1st Vice President Mike Paikin2nd Vice President Gerry HartTreasurer Jim HartnettSecretary Margy BennettImmediate Past President Boyd Wietecter

directorsDistrict 1 Katy HaydenDistrict 2 Robyn BentleyDistrict 3 Richard ArenellaDistrict 4 Jeff DoucetteDistrict 5 Shane DouglasDistrict 6 Carol BurnsDistrict 7 Margy BennettDistrict 8 Jimmie SanteeDistrict 9 Dan SmithDistrict 10 Rebecca AndersonDistrict 11 Liz FolgerDistrict 12 Janise JensenDistrict 13 Bob KnoerlDistrict 14 Paige ScottDistrict 15 Donald BartelsonDistrict 16 Cindy SolbergDistrict 17 Jos PronkDistrict 18 Jean-Claude DetreHockey Spiro GiotisBuilders & Suppliers Doug PetersInstructors David SanteeCommercial Rinks Andy DeyoPublic Rinks Al TyldesleySchools, Colleges, Universities Vicki KornPSA Representative Gerry LaneUSFSA Representative Homer HagedornLifetime Honorary Member Carol Zdziebko

CrossCutsnews and notes

New Ownership for Rainbo Sports Shop

After 35 years of owning and manag-ing Rainbow Sports Shop in Skokie,IL, Cale Carvell has sold a majorityinterest in the company to a newmanagement team headed by MikeAllenson. Allenson has over 15 yearsof experience in retailing, merchan-dising and marketing. Carvell willfocus on expanding Rainbo’s speedskating business. For more informa-tion on Rainbo Sports Shop, go towww.rainbosportsshop.com.

An Evening with Champions toBenefit the Jimmy Fund

An Evening with Champions, anannual figure skating exhibition thatbenefits the Jimmy Fund for pediatric

cancer patients and research efforts atthe Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, willbe held October 10-11, 2003 at theBright Hockey Arena at Harvard Uni-versity. The exhibition, a 34-year tradi-tion, is organized by students of EliotHouse at Harvard. The host of thisyear’s exhibition will be 1992 SilverMedallist Paul Wylie. The show will fea-ture 1994 Olympic Gold MedallistOksana Baiul, 2003 National PairsChampions Philip Dulebohn andTiffany Scott, and brothers Parker andColin Pennington.

An Evening with Champions bringstogether world-class figure skaters, col-lege students, kids and doctors in aneffort to eradicate cancer. For moreinformation or to order tickets, call617-493-8172 or go to www.anevening-withchampions.org.

NEW CONSTRUCTION

• Scranton, PA – An Ice Box indoorskating rink is being built inScranton.

• Georgetown, MI – Ground hasbeen broken for a new approxi-mately $8 million municipal icearena. A grand opening is sched-uled for May 2004.

• Guangzhou, China – Grand ViewMall, the largest shopping mall isAsia, expects to attract up to800,000 people a day. The mam-moth facility will house a 48-storyfive-star hotel, a 30-story officebuilding and an ice rink.

• Detroit, MI – Campus Martius Parkis a gift to the city from the Detroit300 legacy. The park will includegreen space and two concert stagesand will feature a fountain in thesummer and a skating plaza thesize of New York’s Rockefeller Cen-ter in winter.

• Bethlehem, PA – After four years ofplanning and delays, constructionwas started in June on a hockey rinkat Bethlehem Works. The Philadel-phia Flyers and Lehigh Valley IceManagement kicked off the six-month project to build the $7.5 mil-lion, two-rink Flyers Skate Zone.

Paul Wylie to host an Evening with Champions.

the edge september/october 2003 5

• Delmont, PA – Center Ice in Del-mont has added a third sheet of iceto meet growing demands for icetime from hockey players and figureskaters. The new Allegheny Arenarink is named for the AlleghenyHockey Association, a member ofthe Pittsburgh Amateur HockeyAssociation. The AHA plans to addteams and expand programs forgirls. In addition to the growth inhockey at Center Ice, the figure skat-ing program has grown by 12-15percent in the last year.

ARENA OPENINGS

• McCall, ID – The Manchester Ice andEvent Center, a year-round ice rink,opened in June in downtownMcCall with a ribbon cutting, dedi-cation and ice show. The $6.2 mil-lion, 650-seat center has windowsoverlooking Payette Lake and anNHL-sized sheet of ice. The center isthe project of the Rich Sabala Foun-dation, founded by Rich and DianaSabala in memory of their son.

• Syosset, NY – A new outdoor facilityhousing an almost NHL-sized rollerrink in the spring, summer and falland an ice rink in the winter openedin June with NHLers Darius Kaspari-tis and Trent Hunter. “Le Colissee”features boards, glass, goals, score-board and signage in French. Skat-ing director Manon Bibeau promis-es the finest instruction for skaterswhile owner Michael Rudmanpromises guest visits by New YorkIslander players

ARENA CLOSINGS

• Parma Heights, OH – ParmaHeights owned Greenbrier Ice Rinkclosed in June amid controversy.City officials decided in 2002 toclose the rink this year due to itsoperating deficit and need for up to$500,000 in capital improvements.The closing was recommended bya 10-person task force that con-ducted a nine-month study andfound that fewer than one percentof Parma Heights households used

the facility regularly. Residentsopposed to the closing circulatedpetitions to recall the mayor.

• San Antonio, TX – Goodwill Indus-tries has taken over space once occu-pied by the Crystal Ice Palace skat-ing center.

NAMES IN THE NEWS

• Congratulations to San Jose JuniorSharks ice hockey coach Luc Roywho received a Double-Goal CoachAward from Positive CoachingAlliance for his efforts to provide apositive environment for his team.

• Congratulations to RichardDwyer, recipient of the Skaters’Fund’s Ambassador Award forhumanitarian service. The awardrecognizes Richard Dwyer for hisyears of service, love and caring forthe sport of figure skating.

• Suburban Sports Group has hiredIan Herbers as assistant managerof Novi Ice Arena in Novi, MI. Her-

Continued on page 6...

the edge september/october 20036

bers’ experience includes being aSuburban Hockey Schools instructorfor a year. Herbers played juniorhockey in the Western HockeyLeague and played hockey at theUniversity of Alberta while earninghis degree in physical education. Hehas played for the Edmonton OilersAmerican Hockey League affiliate,the Detroit Vipers, the Tampa BayLightning and the New YorkIslanders.

• Jeff Bardwell is the new Arenaand Properties Manager at EverettArena in Concord, NH.

RINK RUMBLINGS

EAST

• Zullinger, PA – The 35,596-square-foot building that housed the DorisI. Billow Ice Arena for two yearswent on the auction block in July.The $2.8 million arena, whichopened in December 1997, was soldfor $400,000 to two businessmenwho hope to reopen it. The buildinghad been gutted and the ice-makingsystem, Zamboni and rental skatessold after a bank foreclosed on thefacility in 2000.

• Bennington, VT – A feasibilitystudy is to be conducted to deter-mine the practicality of building anice skating rink at Bennington’srecreation center.

• New York, NY – A new $15 millionSports Complex, slated for the hang-er area of Floyd Bennett Field in theGateway National Park, will house afull-sized ice hockey rink as well as asmaller rink for recreational skatingand pee-wee hockey. Other ameni-ties planned include six full-sizedbasketball and volleyball courts, out-door football and soccer facilities, a3,500-square-foot gymnasium withmen’s and women’s locker roomsand saunas, a climbing wall, gameand party rooms, a food court andpro shop. Floyd Bennett Field servedas the city’s first municipal airport in1928 and was heavily used by theNavy during World War II.

• Natick, MA – Facility ManagementCorporation’s bid to lease and oper-

ate West Suburban Arena for eightyears has been approved. FMCoffered the base rent plus $443,000worth of capital improvements.FMC agreed to purchase the equip-ment currently in use at the arenaand transfer ownership to the town.A new electric Zamboni has beenordered, with new dehumidifica-tion, a new arena ceiling, new floor-ing and other improvements on theway. Over the lease period, therefrigeration system will be replacedalong with the dashers and most ofthe facility’s mechanical systems.FMC will devote one-half of one per-cent of revenue to a CommunityInvestment Program that will fundscholarships, charity events andother programs. FMC now operates17 public ice arenas throughout MA.

• York, PA – Officials with the YorkCity Recreation Corporation’s icerink at Veteran’s Memorial Park arecautiously optimistic about beingable to meet their November bondpayment of $181,492 and nextMay’s payment of $446,492. Plans toincrease revenues include turningthe 6,000-square-foot mezzaninespace originally designed for arestaurant into an all-purpose roomfor corporate parties, dances andbingo. Summer day camps offeringskating and an array of sporting,educational and recreational activi-ties are planned along with efforts tosolicit business and governmententities for funds to increase thenumber of learn-to-skate programsfor inner city kids.

MIDWEST

• Hoffman Estates, IL – A verbal agree-ment between the Chicago Wolvesand Hoffman Estates park districtofficials calls for the addition of askating facility to the park districtcommunity center. Under the plans,the community center would also beexpanded and rehabbed. Ifapproved, the skating facility willinclude two NHL-sized rinks, oneaccommodating 700 spectators andthe other 300. Plans call for a proshop, video wall and concessionsarea. The Wolves would use the facil-ity for practice only.

• Milwaukee, WI – Red Arrow Park’sice rink’s renovated cooling system

has 35,000 feet of new pipe and con-crete. Coolant leaking from the oldpipes caused the rink to be shutdown last winter.

• Cudahy, WI – The developer of theplanned $27 million Powerade Ice-port asked the city of Cudahy formore time to provide details of theproject’s budget. Sportsites LLC, thereal estate developer, hopes to alsodevelop LakePort Village, a proposed35-acre mixed-use development tosurround the five-rinks facility. The210,000-square-foot Iceport is sched-uled to open for the summer of2004. In addition to the five rinks,Iceport is to feature a wireless Inter-net café and kiosks, a performanceenhancement center, gaming room,study hall, day care, and food andbeverages areas.

NORTHWEST

• Hood River, OR – Developers wantto turn a tiny, 75-year-old ski resortinto a year-round attraction with450 housing units and a resort withan ice rink, biking and hikingtrails, a golf course, hotel andrestaurants. A coalition calledCooper Spur Wild and Free oppos-es the plan citing concerns aboutdamage to the local watershed,soaring land values and the poten-tial impact on wildlife, includingelk that winter near Cooper Spur.

• Moscow, ID - $165,000 has beendonated to the Palouse Ice Rink Asso-ciation for ice rink improvements.

CANADA

• Windsor, ON – City Council mem-bers are considering a joint arenaand stadium venture with the Uni-versity of Windsor. The proposed6,500-seat stadium and 5,000-seatarena is estimated to cost $35 mil-lion. The university is committed tobuilding the stadium.

...Continued from page 5

Editor’s Note: “CrossCuts” is com-piled from press releases and pub-lished reports. Submit information toEditor, ISI EDGE, 17120 N DallasPkwy, Suite 140, Dallas, TX 75248-1187; fax to 972-735-8815; e-mailto [email protected].

8 the edge september/october 2003

Is There a Glass Ceiling inthe Ice Arena Industry?by Jack Vivian, Ph.D.

Where are the female managers in the ice arenaindustry? When dealing with ice arenas in theUnited States, I find there are few women in man-

agement or operations positions. With the recent advanceswomen have made in other industries, it is alarming that ourfield has so few. This leads one to ask what factors have con-tributed to the low number of females advancing to the man-agement level in the ice arena industry.

Successful managers realize that they need the best talent iftheir business is to succeed and be the best. I have managedpeople in the ice arena industry for more than 37 years, andI have yet to figure out why it has taken women so long toadvance within the industry. There have been many timesover the years when I have observed successful women in icearena positions, but they did not advance.

I recall a woman I worked with, an outstanding office man-ager who performed many management tasks since I was also

teaching and coaching university hockey and football teamsat the time. A college graduate, she combined fundamentaltraining in business with a keen ability to solve problems andsee the “big picture.” When I moved on to professionalhockey, she wasn’t even considered as my replacement.

Over the years, the women I have observed and been associ-ated with have confirmed what the literature on manage-ment skills indicates; women have better consensus andteam building skills than their male counterparts. Men aremore direct and authoritative, as is yours truly. I can howev-er think of many past and present skating directors, officemanagers, concession and pro shop workers who wouldmake outstanding arena managers, if given the chance. Idon’t believe their lack of opportunity resulted from a per-ception that they didn’t want the responsibility or were moreinterested in motherhood, as some would lead us to believe.Nor did they lack proper credentials or physical skills to per-form the job.

Continued on page 10...

the edge september/october 2003 9

the edge september/october 2003

...Continued from page 8

Continued on page 12...

10

Sadly, I have not come across many women in the opera-tions and maintenance side of our industry, although wehope to change that through our iAIM Certificate of Oper-ations program; iAIM encourages all students to becomeactively involved in all facetsof the business. Surely, we willfind females with the interestand skills to perform thesetasks. Since communication,organization and attention todetails are more importantthan physical or mechanicalskills, I am confident thatwhen it finally does happen,these individuals will do a lotto attract a whole new breed ofcompetent, qualified femalesto the operations and mainte-nance side of the business.

Life in our industry is difficult enough without trying tosucceed in management by appointing only men toimportant positions. I don’t believe good managers selectkey contributors based on a prejudiced point-of-view. Thefact, however, is that there may be a “good old boys” net-work that contributes to the current situation.

Due to the fact that many arenas in the past have beenowned and operated by municipalities, maybe we should

look to the leadership in community governments for one ofthe solutions. It would appear that recreation directors andcity managers are male dominated professions; thus, if agood old boys network is in effect, the tendency is to appoint

males to subordinate posi-tions. Whether politics andthe dominance of males inthat segment of society havecontributed to this phenome-non would be an interestingstudy.

Management in the 2000s haschanged the way it looks atand involves itself with theworkforce. With workers andmanagers alike stressed out bythe demands to do more withless and fears about losingjobs, the workplace is not

quite the picture of sweetness and happiness of the 80s and90s. Nor is it all doom and gloom either. There is evidenceof new employee and management attitudes toward work —- and each other. This cannot help but boost females intomanagement positions.

The worker of today is looking for a career, not just a job.More individuals are looking at jobs as professions and cometo the workplace with a higher level of technical competence

Life in our industry is diffi-cult enough without trying to succeed in management by appointing only men to

important positions.

the edge september/october 2003 11

the edge september/october 200312

...Continued from page 10

New Judges ManualAvailable

than their predecessors. Furthermore, today’s workforce hasa broader understanding of issues, such as business costs andaccounting, contract negotiations, working with and moti-vating people, than in the past. There is no question thatfemales are going to be the dominant force in a workforcethat males comprised in the past. Most colleges and univer-sities are graduating more females than males, and theseyoung people are professional, aggressive and talented.

If it is true that females have better team building skills thanmales, the future looks much brighter for their inclusion intomanagement positions in our industry. It has been proventhat providing a setting where employees’ ideas and concernsare welcomed has resulted in issues being addressed andresolved in their infancy, before they escalate into formalgrievances. If women can do this better than men, all thebetter for our industry. The empowerment of the workforceis in everyone’s best interest, not just management’s.

With the unprecedented growth in the ice arena industry,we need to do more to attract women into arena manage-ment. Start by assessing your current employees and pro-moting and mentoring female employees. We have a lot tolearn from them; they will make a valuable contribution toour industry.

* Dr. Jack Vivian is the Director of the Ice Arena Institute of Man-agement and a recognized authority in the field of arena planning,development, management and operation.

Judging at ISI competitions is done by trainedand certified ISI coaches. All ISI Associate Mem-bers must pass a certification test before servingas a judge. Most answers to test questions canbe found in the current editions of the Skatersand Coaches Handbook (2002-2003), Com-petitors Handbook (2002-2003) and therecently updated and released 2003 edition ofthe Judges Manual.

It is imperative that ISI judges be aware of therules of competition and the latest rule revi-sions. If you have not obtained your copy ofthe NEW ISI Judges Manual, please contactthe ISI Orders Department at 972-735-8800 toplace your order.

FMC to Operate West Suburban Arena

NATICK, MA – Facility Management Corporation (FMC) of Norwell, MA has reached an agreement with

the Town of Natick, Massachusetts on an 8-year lease for West Suburban Arena. With the signing of this lease, FMC now operates 17 public ice arenas throughout Massachusetts. The Town of Natick purchased the West Suburban Arena in 1988

and began leasing it to a local non-profit organization to manage for the nominal fee of $1.00 per year. The Town chose not to renew the lease at its expiration in 1998 citing dissatisfaction with the condition of the facility and a lack of priority schedul- ing for local hockey groups. The organization filed a lawsuit preventing the Town from evicting them, arguing

that their lease with the Town automatically renewed. After losing the judgment in the initial case, the Town appealed. Early this year, Town officials were notified that they had won the appeal and were free to evict the operator. In May, the Natick Board of Selectmen issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the arena lease in hopes of attracting a professional ice arena management firm willing to invest in capital improvements badly needed at the facility in exchange for a lease. At the Natick Selectman’s meeting on June 16th the Board considered two proposals it had received then voted unanimously to accept FMC’s proposal and authorized the Town Administrator to negotiate the final terms of the lease. FMC offered not only the base rent of $475,000 required by the RFP, but also another $443,000 worth of additional capital improvements over the 8-year agreement. As part of their proposal, FMC agreed to purchase the equipment currently in use at the arena that is owned by the previous operator and transfer the ownership to the Town. Further, FMC will begin a Community Investment Program that will dedicate a percentage of arena revenue to fund scholarships and other local charitable causes. “It’s our way of making sure the rink benefits everyone in the community and not only those people who skate at the facility,” said Rob McBride, President of FMC. This program is also in place at other arenas operated by FMC. “We are very excited to have this opportunity to partner with the Town of Natick,” McBride went on to say, “This is a wonderful facility with a rich history of hockey and figure skating. It is a very important recreational asset not just for Natick but all the surrounding communities as well. We look forward to improving the facility and offering quality programs for everyone in the community to enjoy”. There is a substantial amount of work to be done at the arena. A new electric Zamboni has already been ordered, with new dehumidification, a new arena ceiling, new flooring, and many other improvements on the way. Over the lease period the aging refrigeration system will be replaced along with the dashers and most of the facility’s mechanical systems. The arena will re-open under FMC management on August 4th.

Facility Management Corporation

Facility ManagementCorporation is aninnovative leader ofpublic recreational facilitymanagement, specializingin ice rink operations. FMC’steam has over a century ofcombined experience in the industry,it is time to put their knowledge andskills to work for you! Call us today:

781-982-8166 / www.fmcarenas.com

P.O. Box 93, Rockland, MA 02370

• Feasibility

• Design

• Vending

• Food Services

• Marketing

• Programming

• Consulting

• Planning

• Management

• Operations

•Vision

JOIN THE FMC TEAM! As a growing leader in the industry, FMC is alwayslooking to add quality individuals to our managementteam. Immediate openings are available for:

· Senior Management

· Arena Management

If you have ice rink experience and are interestedin learning more about employment opportunities withFMC contact our Human Resources Department at:

781-982-8166 ext. 107 or

[email protected]

•Innovation•Efficiency

•Service

the edge september/october 200314

Once a customer walks through the door, whether aregular or a newcomer, he or she is someone inter-ested in your facility and the programs you offer.

You don’t have to sell this person on coming to your facil-ity, but are you maximizing your sales opportunities withyour customers?

Consider and take advantage of the following opportunitiesto maximize your potential sales.• Food combo packages provide a terrific opportunity to

sell a drink and chips or fries with a sandwich.• Add giant-sized food items such as giant drinks, giant

fries, and any food items you can sell as an extra largesize. People are willing to pay for the bigger size.

• Purchase custom buttons for your employees to wearthat remind customers you’re selling something spe-cial. These button can read, “Ask Me About Our Birth-day Party Packages!” or “Ask Me About Our ….” Besure to tell your staff to ask customers to try addition-al products.

• Offer family packages to customers. Give families theoption of paying one price to visit your facility for sixmonths or for a year. Think about what you need tocharge to make it worth your while and what would beappealing to customers. Remember that a family thatbuys an annual pass to visit your facility may come backmore times than they would otherwise, and each timethey visit they are buying more food and purchasingmore merchandise.

• When your customers buy birthday party packages, areyou mailing them fliers with suggestions of all the addi-tional services or items you can provide to make theirlife easier and their parties more fun? Your staff mightcall birthday party customers to suggest additionalitems to purchase for parties. Customers can be direct-ed to visit your website where you post additional itemsand services for parties. Let them know they can add acake, extra activities or time, goodie bags, extra tokensand special entertainment.

• Do you make sure that every parent visiting your facilityreceives a brochure or flier about your birthday party orgroup party packages? This includes all the parents whoare guests at birthday parties at your facility.

• When selling parties to groups, do you make special offerssuch as “book three parties and receive a free party orreceive significant discounts”?

• The last time you visited a circus or an amusement park,you probably saw the staff selling light-up swords, fiberoptic flashlights and neon necklaces during the show orat the closing. Why not stock up on these or similar funitems and let your staff wear/demonstrate them andwatch them sell like hot cakes?

How toMaximize SalesOpportunities

by Susan Snyder-Davis

Proud scheduler of over 22,000 facilities!

What our customers are saying:

“I consider MaxFacility to be the third most important asset in my arena – right behind the refrigeration system and

resurfacer.” - Mark Vaughan (Eagan Civic Arena, Eagan, MN)

“The greatest benefit I have received from using MaxSolutions software has been peace of mind and more energy. It allows

me to complete other tasks I never seemed to be able to get to

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using MaxFacility and I certainly would never want to return

to those days.” - Lee Roy (Travis Roy Arena, Yarmouth, ME)

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MAXIMUM SOLUTIONS, INC. HAS THE PERFECT SOFTWARE

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For more information, please contact us at:

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YOUR FACILITY

Facility

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Requests &

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Online

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Viewing

Point

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League

Scheduling

• If you have a fun selection of toys at your redemption ornovelty counter, be sure to have your staff demonstratethe toys. Seeing a toy in action often leads to sales. If youdon’t have games and a redemption center, having a nov-elty toy counter is a great high-profit center with kids.

Don’t miss the opportunities you have to sell more to analready captive audience. Remember, your customers havealready said “yes” to being your guests.

* Susan Snyder-Davis is the owner of Kids Marketing Factory andauthor of Marketing Your Family Entertainment Cen-ter and Special Events for Family Entertainment Cen-ters. She can be reached at [email protected].

Classified AdsImmediate opening for Hockey Director - Skate-town Ice Arena in Roseville, CA is currently acceptingresumes for a hockey director to manage and grow ouryouth and adult house leagues, all hockey instruction-al programs, drop in hockey programs, tournaments,camps, and hockey officials programs. In addition tooverall responsibility for the hockey department, theperson in this position will be a member of the Skate-town management team. Previous successful experi-ence as a hockey director is preferred. Strong organiza-tional, management, customer service, and team-mem-ber skills are required. Send resumes to [email protected].

Pro Shop Manager - Skatetown Ice Arena in Roseville,CA is currently accepting resumes for a person to manageour retail pro shop. Our 1,200 sq. ft. pro shop carries alarge selection of hockey and skating merchandise. Previ-ous successful experience as a retail manager is required.Hockey and skating retail sales is a plus. In addition tooverall responsibility for the pro shop, the person in thisposition will be a member of the Skatetown managementteam. Strong organizational, management, customer ser-vice, and team-member skills are required. Send resumesto [email protected].

The Sunrise Ice Skating Center is seeking anAssistant Manager - applicants must be computer lit-erate, have strong written and orals skills, exceptionalorganizational skills, outgoing personality, customer ser-vice orientated, well groomed – polished. Work week is6 days, 48 hours. If you’re interested in applying, pleasefax your resume to 954-749-6226, attention Michael A.DiCapua – no phone calls.

Zam Driver/Closer - Skatetown Ice Arena, located inNorthern California, is seeking a full-time arena main-tenance person for the 5 pm – close shift.Work includesice maintenance, resurfacer maintenance, cleaning,and minor repair work. Prior experience in this posi-tion is a plus, but not required. Send resume [email protected].

16

September 2003Competitions

12-14 Charles Moore ArenaOrleans MA2003 Adult Championships

20-21 Skating Edge Ice ArenaHarbor City CASkating Edge ISI Open Competition

21 Dr Pepper StarCenterPlano TXStarCenter Challenge 2003

27 Westminster Ice ArenaWestminster CAWestminster ISI Open 2003

October 2003Competitions

3-5 Arkansas Figure Skating AssociationSpringdale AROzark Invitational

17-19 Ice Sports ForumBrandon FL2003 Fall Challenge

24-25 Bielenberg Sport CenterWoodbury MNSkate Woodbury ISI Classic

25-26 Winterland SkatingSchoolRockland MA17th Annual Halloween Classic

25 Incredible IceCoral Springs FL4th Annual Incredible Challenge

31-11/2 Yerba Buena Ice Skating CenterSan Francisco CASkate SF 2003

November 2003Competitions

7-9 The CoolerAlpharetta GA5th Annual 2003 ISI Invitational

8-9 Hampton Roads Ice PlexYorktown VA2nd Annual Fall Classic Open

December 2003Competitions

6-7 Eastridge Ice ArenaSan Jose CAFinale 2003

January 2004Competitions

17-18 Ray & Joan Kroc Community CenterSan Diego CA2nd Annual ISI Open Competition

February 2004Competitions

13-15 Centennial Sportsplex Ice ArenaNashville, TNISI Winter Classic

March 2004Competition

26-28 Ice ChaletKnoxville TN35th Annual Mississippi Valley District Competition

May 2004 Competitions1-2 Fairfax Ice Arena

Fairfax VAFairfax Ice Arena Annual ISI Spring Competition

September 2003Shows/Exhibitions

7-11 Families Give BackNew York NYStars, Stripes & Skates Icetravaganza

13 Park District of Franklin ParkFranklin Park ILOpen House

December 2003Shows/Exhibitions

2-4 Ice ChaletKnoxville TNThe Nutcracker on Ice XVI

6-7 Park District of Franklin ParkFranklin Park ILHoliday Recital

7 George S DeArment Ice ArenaMeadville PALearn To Skate Holiday On Ice Recital

19 Arctic Ice ArenaOrland Park ILHoliday Exhibition

20-21 Yerba Buena Ice Skating CenterSan Francisco CAHolidaze 2003

21 Ice at The ParksArlington TXChristmas For All Seasons

31 Easy Street Ice ArenaSimi Valley CAWinter Ice Show

March 2004Shows/Exhibitions

26-28 Zion Ice ArenaZion IL“Hooray For Hollywood”

28 George S DeArment Ice ArenaMeadville PALearn To Skate Boot Skater N Boogie

April 2004Shows/Exhibitions

23-25 McFetridge Sports CenterChicago IL“City Lights”

For additional

calendar information,

check ISI’s fabulous

NEW website at

www.skateisi.org

CALENDARISI ENDORSED COMPETITIONS, SHOWS/EXHIBITIONS

(Due to printing deadlines, events endorsed by ISI after July 25, 2003 are not listed.)

the edge september/october 2003

the edge september/october 2003 17

ISI Fall Seminars PlannedAs part of ISI’s ongoing dedication

to providing education, leadershipand services, the Institute is again

offering FREE Fall Seminars for instructors,program directors, managers and staff.“ISI’s Fall Seminars are an exceptionalvalue,” says Patti Feeney, ISI Director ofMember Programs and Services. “Anyoneinterested in networking with peers andupgrading their skills should attend theirdistrict’s fall seminar. Whether you’re newto the ISI program or a long-time member,there is value for everyone.”

Fall Seminars offer exceptional educa-tional opportunities for ISI members.Take advantage of the opportunity tonetwork with school directors, instruc-tors and managers. Plan now to attendyour District Seminar.

Two new manuals are available from ISI forFall Seminar attendees – one for arena staffand management called Scoring Goals withISI and one for instructors and programdirectors titled Achieving Goal with ISI.These manuals are free to seminar atten-dees. Members who cannot attend a sem-inar can purchase a manual from ISI. Thecost is $15 per manual, plus postage andhandling. To order a copy, call 972-735-8800, extension 213 or send e-mail [email protected].

District 1District Representative: Katy HaydenPhone: 781-740-2255E-Mail:[email protected] Seminar: September 21, 2003

Contact: Katy HaydenRockland Rink, Rockland, MA

District 2District Representative: Robyn BentleyPhone: 607-533-7045Fax: 607-533-8899E-Mail: [email protected]

District 3District Representative: Richard ArenellaPhone: 516-775-7862E-Mail: [email protected] Seminar: September 21 or 28, 2003

Floyd Hall Arena, Little Falls, NJManagers Seminar: October 28, 2003

Danbury Arena, Danbury, CT

District 4District Representative: Jeffrey DoucettePhone: 302-831-4634E-Mail: [email protected]:www.isidistrict4.homestead.com

District 5District Representative: Shane DouglasPhone: 601-936-0002E-Mail: [email protected] Seminar: September 20, 2003

Contact: Larry LaBordePhone: 865-588-1858E-Mail: [email protected]

Instructors Seminar: September 21, 2003

Contact: Larry LaBordePhone: 865-588-1858E-Mail: [email protected]

District 6District Representative: Carol BurnsPhone: 313-429-1086E-Mail: [email protected] Seminar: September 14, 2003

Contact: Carol BurnsMelvindale Civic ArenaMelvindale, MI

District 7District Representative: Margy BennettPhone:614-766-4689E-Mail: [email protected] Seminar: Date TBD

Goggin Ice ArenaOxford, OH

Operators Seminar: October 22, 2003Alice Noble Ice Arena, Wooster, OH

District 8District Representative: Jimmie SanteePhone: 847-692-8595E-Mail: [email protected] Seminar: August 11-13, 2003Instructors Seminar: September 23, 2003

Contact: Diana Himmel-KrewerNorthbrook Sports CenterNorthbrook, ILPhone: 847-291-2993E-Mail: [email protected]

District 9District Representative: Dan SmithPhone: 816-505-2244

District 10District Representative: Rebecca AndersonPhone 605-367-3820Seminar: September 21, 2003

Contacts: Sally Rech and Rebecca AndersonPlymouth Ice Center

District 11District Representative: Liz FolgerPhone: 972-831-2480E-Mail: [email protected] Seminar: August 10, 2003Instructors Seminar: August 10, 2003

District 12District Representative: Jenise JensenPhone: 970-547-9974E-Mail: [email protected]

District 13District Representative: Bob KnoerlPhone: 503-625-5757E-Mail: [email protected] Seminar: September 5, 2003Instructors Seminar: September 5, 2003

Contact: Lisa Mizonick-KnoerlPhone: 503-625-5757

District 14District Representative: Paige ScottPhone: 415-777-3727E-Mail: [email protected]

District 15District Representative: Donald BartelsonPhone: 909-986-0793

District 16District Representative: Cindy SolbergPhone: 907-694-7328E-Mail: [email protected] Seminar: September 13-14, 2003

Contact: Glynne TjomslandBen Boeke Ice Arena, Anchorage, AKPhone: 907-243-2848

District 17District Representative: Jos PronkPhone: 31(0) 20 6418167E-Mail: [email protected]

District 18District Representative: Jean-Claude DetrePhone: 863-427-2505

For the latest updates on ISI Fall Seminardates and locations, go to www.skateisis.org.

In the Beginning…

Over the past 30 years, the sight of deteriorating or aban-doned downtown areas in small New York State cities hasbecome the rule rather than the exception. It began with thesouthern population migration when fuel costs soared in the70s and income levels dropped. Fewer people meant fewershoppers and less need for goods and services that were usu-ally located downtown.

Once fuel costs dropped and the population stabilized, how-ever, there was another problem. Downtowns didn’t “comeback.” Instead, a combination of suburban strip malls andbox stores with easier access and fewerparking problems slowly but surelydrove shoppers, tourists - evenbusinesspeople - away fromthe hearts of the cities.

It is a problem not easilysolved. How, after all, doyou “bring back” down-town areas? How do youfind that elusive store, orhotel, or building, orentertainment venue thatwill trigger the rebirth ofthe urban downtown, andturn abandoned intobustling?

In the case of Jamestown, New York, a good part of the solu-tion had “ice skating” written all over it.

Jamestown is a small city about as far west in New YorkState as you can get. Its population of 35,000 declinedsomewhat during the migration years. But those whoremained were determined not to leave, and with goodreason. The city is nestled in the southern tier of westernNew York, with gentle hills of rolling farmland, and prac-tically on the shores of Lake Chautauqua, arguably one ofthe more beautiful lakes in the state. The quality of life isgood, even during those long winters, particularly if youare a figure skater or hockey player. And Jamestown has

plenty of those!

Like Buffalo, only 60 milesaway, ice skating is king inJamestown. For years, the AllenPark Municipal Center ice rinkstruggled valiantly to service allthe locals who aspired to beWayne Gretzky or MichelleKwan. Ice skating wasn’t just asport in this small city - it was aliving part of the city, and whenthe community was looking for

a way to add a little

Photo courtesy of Jon Elder Productions

Jamestown SavingsBank Ice Arena

by Sara Meyerdierks Hillgrove

Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena is home to 25 youth hockey teams.

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life to their downtown area, something with the patina ofice skating seemed a natural.

“Revitalizing a downtown area is a huge project, and manythought using a world-class ice skating facility as the lynch-pin was futile and a little far out,” said Dr. Thomas Cardman,executive director of the Gebbie Foundation. “Luckily, thoseof us who dreamed that dream persevered, and it’s givendowntown Jamestown a whole new lease on life.”

Cardman should know. The foundation he heads, estab-lished in 1964 with the focus of supporting community-based programs in Chautauqua County, turned out to bethe city’s philanthropic angel. In 1998 the City ofJamestown sent a grant proposal to the foundation forassistance in funding a new ice skating facility for the city.Cardman eventually took the reins and steered the projectthrough. He approached the County of Chautauqua Indus-trial Development Agency, and with the help of sevenother area foundations, came up with the financial back-ing that could make this dream come true.

The Nuts and Bolts

By February of 2000, the Gebbie Foundation had formed theJamestown Center City Development Corporation (JCCDC)as a mechanism for financing and developing the ice arena,which by now had become a spectacular 110,000 square footdream building with two NHL-sized rinks, a snack bar, proshop, training and exercise rooms, a walking track, meetingrooms and outdoor amenities. It was to be located in theWest End of downtown, a strategic placement for the pur-pose of spurring reinvestment in the deteriorating area.

But it wasn’t as easy as just building a building. The buildingsite was nowhere near empty. Several parcels of land needed tobe purchased and several businesses relocated. And because thiswas to be a charitable project, and Jamestown is truly a smalltown whose people know and care about each other, the ideas,feelings and problems of those established retailers were ofmajor concern. Businesses already on site needed to receive faircompensation, and the business owners needed to buy in tothe whole idea of revitalization, and to recognize the impor-tant part they played in the overall scheme. In addition, thecity had no interest in losing its retail tax base, so the businessesneeded to be relocated within the city borders.

It was a daunting task, but one that was incredibly successful.Eleven businesses were relocated - without resorting to eminentdomain - all within a seven-month period. Those businesses arenow thriving in their new locations, and have only good thingsto say about the way they were treated during the whole process.

Relocation was only the beginning of the construction road-blocks. Six abandoned petroleum tanks had to be removed.There were asbestos contamination problems. Pre- and post-construction challenges abounded. Not to mention the prob-lem of finding the right person or persons to advise on therink’s construction and future management.

Managing the Chaos

In the Fall of 2000, the JCCDC sent out a request for pro-posal in order to identify a company that knew the ice

industry and had a successful record in management thatwould impress the powers-that-be in Jamestown. After alengthy interview and proposal process, they chose RinkManagement Services Corporation (RMS), a Virginia-basedcompany that manages 20 facilities around the country,and has a solid history in working with municipalities.

“I think the thing that impressed the Foundation and theJCCDC the most about us was the fact that we’ve managedprobably more muni projects than any one else in theindustry,” says Tom Hillgrove, president of RMS. “Work-ing with municipalities demands a unique approach tomanagement, and only experience sharpens those skills.The ‘bottom line’ includes much more than just money. Itincludes public relations, community service, and makingthe community as much a part of the process as the con-struction crews.”

Paying attention to community concerns was top priori-ty for of both RMS and the JCCDC. Together they craft-ed a long-range public relations campaign to keepJamestown residents informed about every step of thedevelopment and construction process. The plan includ-ed ongoing interviews in the local press, town meetings,and a web site that was updated regularly with “progress”photos. By paying attention to details and being com-pletely candid, the groups got the support of almosteveryone in Jamestown.

Not to say there weren’t bumps in the road. The most chal-lenging issue turned out to be convincing the residents inJamestown that the new facility was not being built or sup-ported by their tax dollars, but with private money.

“There was some potential bad feeling in the beginning whenrumors began flying around town,” said Glen Danischewski,

Continued on page 20...

the edge september/october 2003 19

the edge september/october 200320

the RMS Vice President who spearheaded the Jamestown pro-ject. “But we worked the issues out, including persuadingsome of the more vocal and influential media people in thearea that the arena wasn’t going to raise taxes, but shouldimprove the city’s quality of life. Once they understood whatwe were trying to do and how, their support was irreplace-able.”

Bringing Together the Pieces

Figure SkatingAs anyone who has been involved in a community-based pro-ject will understand, building concerns were only part of themix that would make the Jamestown Ice Arena a success. Iceskating was a long-established sport in Jamestown, and thatmeant there were thousands of skaters and non-skaters who hada vested interest in how it would all work. In spite of its deteri-orating physical plant, the Allen Park municipal arena had beenhome for 17 years to The Skating Academy, a figure skatingschool run by two very distinguished former champions.

Lenel Van Den Berg, from South Africa, won the NationalChampionship of his country seven times, was a member of hisnation’s international figure skating team, and toured profes-sionally for seven years with Holiday on Ice. Kirk Wyse is a for-mer U.S. national competitor and gold medalist, and toured asa professional with Holiday on Ice and the Ice Capades beforebecoming a full-time skating coach. In 1996, he was the chore-ographer for World Champion figure skater Todd Eldredge.

Together, these two men founded The Skating Academy inJamestown. From very humble beginnings, the school hasbecome one of the most well-respected skating schools in thecountry. Van Den Berg and Wyse have jointly coached skatersto four international medals and 14 national medals, andthey have done much of it from this quiet little corner of NewYork State. Of course, they don’t do it alone. Their staffincludes well-known coaches in the areas of dance, move-ment, conditioning and ballet, as well as figure skating.

To ensure the success of the new ice arena, it was imperativethat Van Den Berg and Wyse be a part of the planning, and,naturally, they were excited at the thought of upgrading their“work space.” In addition, they had a strong ally in theJamestown Skating Club (JSC). Founded in 1971, the JSCworked closely with the Skating Academy over the years tokeep the skating program at its high level. This group pro-vided the kind of skating support that most industry profes-sionals only dream of. The arena – and the city – needed theirhelp and backing, and they gave it wholeheartedly.

HockeyAnother group that would definitely be a mover and shakerin the new arena was the Chautauqua County Youth Hock-ey Association. The CCYHA has a membership of nearly 350skaters who skate on 25 teams, not to mention their parentsand supporters. The group focuses on 4-17 year olds, maleand female, and puts as much emphasis on building self-con-fidence as it does on learning the basics of the game.

While the CCYHA was ecstatic at the thought of two beauti-ful new sheets of ice, Rink Management Services was tryingto balance hockey demands with figure skating demands

with public service demands. But CCYHA definitely had tobe considered a player when it came to assigning ice time.Their nine state championships in the last 13 years – includ-ing the Small High School State Championship in 2003 –made them one!

So while the architects drew, the earthmovers moved, and theconstruction crews constructed, Rink Management was form-ing symbiotic relationships that moved the project ahead inleaps and bounds. The first was with The Skating Academy andthe JSC. The Skating Academy provided a strong reputation infigure skating and excellent coaches; the JSC provided a back-bone and ongoing support; and RMS added its knowledge ofhow to operate the best facility, and how to attract new skatersand keep the community involved and happy.

The second relationship was with the CCYHA. The twogroups worked together to be sure those who were alreadyhockey players had the ice they needed, and those thatweren’t were given the opportunity and incentive to play.All partnerships proved to be win-win combinations.

Paying Its Own Way

Of course, the project needed to be backed up with morethan just cooperation among the players. Although the Geb-bie Foundation and the other foundation supporters wereextremely generous, the arena had to also earn its way. Oneof the first major financial tasks was to find arena sponsors.This meant not only selling dasherboard ads and handling adtrades and equipment deals, but finding a major name spon-sor as well. A somewhat daunting task in a city that takespride in its blue-collar origins and lifestyle, and where areabusinesses make spending decisions very carefully.

Getting a business in Jamestown to commit to a long-termfinancial deal like building naming was not going to happenovernight. And it didn’t. But Rink Management had a strongmarketing and sales background and had a track record ofmaking sponsorship sales work. With the help of Cardmanand area business leaders, they approached the major busi-nesses in town and went to work. Their sales pitch on spon-sorship — “It’s the Biggest Thing to Happen to Jamestown

Pro Shop sales and service keep customers happy at Jamestown Savings BankIce Arena.

...Continued from page 19

Continued on page 37...

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Rink Management ServicesCorporation

The largest operator of ice skating facilities in the United States

Discover why America’sleadingdevelopers,municipalities, lenders,non-profit foundations and Fortune 500companies have chosen Rink Management Servicesto develop and manage their ice skating facilities.

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RINK MANAGEMENT SERVICES CORPORATION804-550-7002

www.rinkmanagement.com9400 Charter Crossing, Suite D, Mechanicsville, VA 23116

the edge september/october 200322

It’s not every day or even every year that ISI skaters getto skate on the same ice as Olympic Silver MedallistTimothy Goebel and Grand Prix Gold Medallists

Tatiana Totmianina and Maksim Marinin. This skaters’dream experience came true on August 1 for selected ISIskaters at the 2003 World Recreational Team Champi-onships in Chicago. The occasion was the ISIA EducationFoundation Benefit on Ice, an annual fundraiser for theEducation Foundation’s Scholarship Fund.

Skaters and spectators look forward to this evening’s specialdisplay of outstanding talent highlighting all aspects of theISI program. From Timothy Goebel, who started in the ISIprogram, to tots, adults and teams, all were represented.Additional special guest skaters included Heather Aseltine,2002 Education Foundation scholarship winner, and KelseyDrewel, both of whom passed their Freestyle 10 test duringthe competition.

“We extend our special thanks to all our skaters and coach-es for their wonderful representation of the ISI program,”said ISIA Education Foundation President Donald Bartel-son. “Congratulations to all the competitors on completinganother fabulous learning experience and World Champi-onships, for making new friends, sharing the joy of skat-ing, and representing the true spirit of ISI.”

ISI skaters who took part in the Benefit on Ice included:• Kaleido-Zone-Sensations, Kaleidoskate, Ice Zone, Board-

man, OH• Samantha Cherney, Delta, Downers Grove Ice Arena,

Downers Grove, IL• Teena Dory, Spotlight Light Entertainment-Adult, Capi-

tal Gateway East Ice Pavilion, Des Moinses, IA• Rock On, Team Compulsory 3, Glenview Ice Center,

Glenview, IL• Veronika Vrtelova, Freestyle 9, SM Southmall, Philippines• Allie Rubenstein, Freestyle 2, Northbrook Sports Center,

Northbrook, IL

• Gabriella Buscerni, Spot-light Light Entertain-ment-Alpha, City ofSouthgate Civic Center,Southgate, MI

• Tera Zorn, Spotlight Dra-matic-FS 6, The Chiller atEaston, Columbus, OH

• Kelsey Drewel, Freestyle10, St. Peters Rec-Plex, St.Peters, MO

• Diego and Julia Rodenas,Family Spotlight, The Iceat Plaza Galleria, CapeGirardeau, MO

• Heather Aseltine,Freestyle 10, NorthbrookSports Center, North-brook, IL

• Carson Dembrosky andHaley Staniszewski, Cou-ple Spotlight, City ofSouthgate Civic Center,Southgate, MI

• Crystal Williams, Artistic9, Harry J McDonaldMemorial Center, EagleRiver, AK

• Ryan Santee, Freestyle 5, Oakton Ice Arena, Park Ridge, IL• Karen Zimmerman, Spotlight Light Entertainment-FS 3,

McMillen Ice Arena, Fort Wayne, IN• Shawn McCrimmon, Footwork 5, Downers Grove Ice

Arena, Downers Grove, IL• Jenise Spiteri, Spotlight Light Entertainment-FS 2, Ice

Oasis, Redwood, CA• Sara Medek, Spotlight Dramatic-FS 8, White Bear Lake

Sports Center, White Bear Lake, MN• Glen Voirol, Artistic 3, McMillen Ice Arena, Fort Wayne,

IN• Jane, Vicki and Katie Broeckert, Family Spotlight, Parade

Ice Garden, Minneapolis, MN• Northbrook Teams Elite, Synchronized Skating-Youth,

Northbrook Sports Center, Northbrook, IL

During the show, the Education Foundation presented aspecial “Distinguished Service Award” to former trusteeDodie Bova in recognition of her service, support and con-tributions to the Ice Skating Institute of America EducationFoundation as a member of the Board of Trustees from1988 to 1999. She also served as Secretary of the ISI Boardof Directors.

Congratulations and best wishes to the 2003 ISIA Educa-tion Foundation scholarship winners: Rebecca Blosser fromJefferson City, MO, and Michael Ferlic from Pittsburgh, PA.

REPORT:

Timothy Goebel

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ISIA Education Foundation trustees and special guest Benefit onIce skaters

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the edge september/october 2003 23

Ice ArenaInstitute of

Management:

ManagementEducation and

Certification ProgramJoin the industry leaders of tomor-row and learn with the best at iAIM.

In response to industry needs and in fulfillment of its mission, ISI offers

the first comprehensive manage-ment education and certification

program for ice arena managers, operators

and programmers.

Governed by aBoard of Regents,under the direction ofJack Vivian, PhD., the

goal of iAIM is to provide industry-specific

education to enhance theknowledge, efficiency and

effectiveness of each graduate.Instructors are selected from among theindustry's most knowledgeable andexperienced practitioners.

What you learn at iAIM could makethe difference in the success of yourcareer and your facility.

Presented by the IceSkating Institute.

October 12 - 17, 2003Oglebay Resort and Conference CenterWheeling, West Virginia

®

For more information, call 972-735-8800Or visit www.skateisi.org

In tough economic times – who you knowand what you know are critical. Education isthe key to survival.

“Education is the foundation of the future of theindustry. It’s the way to introduce new technologies, newmanagement ideas,” says Jack Vivian, Ph.D., Director of ISI’sIce Arena Institute of Management. Chart your future withiAIM – the leading management education and certificationprogram for the ice arena industry.

Join the ice arena industry leaders of the future at the iAIMSchool, October 12-17, 2003 at the Oglebay Resort and Confer-ence Center in Wheeling, West Virginia. Select career enhance-ment through the Certificate of Arena Management, Certificateof Arena Programming or Certificate of Arena Operations coursework. For those working toward the goal of becoming a Certi-fied Arena Executive, CAE courses will also be offered.

iAIM Students on the Ice Arena Institute of Management

“It (iAIM) is a must. I think all managers should take Operationsclasses and all operators should take Management classes,” saysDave Phillips, Supervisor, City of Cleveland Heights, OH.

“I’m convinced that the only way to be a suc-cessful arena manager is through iAIM. Afterworking 30 years in an arena, it took this pro-gram for me to understand that arena manage-ment is a true profession. I gained more confi-

dence than I ever could have imagined possible. Go (attendiAIM) with an open mind and be ready to leave with itover-filled,” said Rick “Rooster” Peloquin, Fitzpatrick Skat-ing Arena, Holyoke, MA.

“You can’t get this instruction anywhere else,” says SeanFlynn, Robert Crown Ice Center, Evanston, IL.

“We have attended other seminars as well as local trainingprograms, but nothing compares to the quality of instruc-tion or the comprehensiveness of information we receivedat iAIM,” said Rob McBride, President, Facility Manage-ment Corporation.

Additional Information

For sample iAIM course listings, additional information onthe iAIM program, a preliminary schedule for the fall iAIMschool at Oglebay, or to download a registration form, goto www.skateisi.org and click on “Education/iAIM.”

Tough Times Require Strong Leadership

the edge september/october 200324

Lynn Roseberry

CoachesCornerby Lynn RoseberryNational Events Coordinator andSkating Program Director

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPSWRAP-UP

The 2003 ISI World Recre-ational Team Championshipsheld in Chicago, IL, July 28 –August 2 at the NorthbrookSports Center, Glenview IceCenter and Twin Rinks Ice Pavilion was a great success! Thecompetition provided a week full of fun and memories thatwill vividly remain for all who attended and participated.

Monday kicked off the competition with a bang, as skatersbegan pouring in not only to compete but to check in at ISIregistration, see the many vendors at the “Skaters MarketPlace” or to cheer for other skaters. This fun-filled day wasonly a preview of the week ahead.

Following the events on Wednesday, skaters, parents andfriends headed to Cubby Bear North for the Opening Cere-monies and Competitors Party. Everyone who attendedenjoyed the food, DJ, dancing and beautiful Chicago evening.

The highlight of the week was the annual ISIA EducationFoundation Benefit on Ice, which raises money to fundscholarships for ISI skaters who actively volunteer, partici-pate in ISI competitions, and have outstanding academicachievements. The participants in the Benefit Show high-lighted the diversity of ISI events, such as Footwork, Spot-light, Team Compulsories, and more.

We were honored to have Timothy Goebel and pair skatersTatiana Totmianina and Maksim Marinin as the guest skatersfor the Benefit on Ice. In addition, we were treated to the tal-ents of two skaters who passed their Freestyle 10 test, HeatherAseltine and Kelsey Drewel. Following the show, Timothy,Tatiana, Maksim, Heather and Kelsey held an autograph ses-sion to give attendees the opportunity to visit with these tal-ented and accomplished skaters.

The week concluded on Saturday with Synchronized teamsof all ages and levels performing in synch and unison alongwith Team Compulsories and extravagant production num-bers showcasing skaters of all ages and abilities. This year’sfirst place trophy was awarded to the Northbrook Sports Cen-ter. Their team had over 150 competitors participating in theChampionships. See page 25 and/or the ISI Websitewww.skateisi.org for final overall team results.

Congratulations to all the teams that participated; all putforth their finest efforts and represented their arenas well. Aspecial “thank you” to the host facilities’ staffs, volunteers andemployees who worked countless hours and gave so generous-ly of their time. It’s the volunteers at these events who ensurethe overall success of the competition. Congratulations, also, toeveryone on the local organizing committee headed by SpiroGiotis for their hard work and cooperation. Thanks to all whowere involved in the success of the 2003 ISI World Recreation-al Team Championships.

FUTURE ISI NATIONAL EVENTS

Upcoming ISI National Events includeAdult Championships, September 12-14,2003 at the Charles Moore Arena inOrleans MA on lovely Cape Cod. For moreinformation and a listing of host hotels,go to www.skateisi.org.

The 2004 ISI national competition seasonwill kick off with Winter Classic, February13-15, 2004 at Centennial Sportsplex inNashville, TN. This event will be followedby ISI Synchronized Skating Championshipsin the Spring in Chicago, IL; 2004 WorldTeam Championships, August 2-7, 2004 inBlaine, MN; and ISI Adult Championships, Fall 2004, locationto be determined.

SPECIAL THANKS!

On a final note, I would like to give a special thanks to all ofthe skaters, parents, coaches, ISI Board Members, and mostimportantly the dedicated ISI staff with whom I have hadthe opportunity to work. After three years of working withthe Ice Skating Institute, I have resigned as National EventsCoordinator and Skating Program Director. I’m getting mar-ried in October and moving to St. Louis, MO.

The role of ISI National Events Coor-dinator and Skating Program Directorwill be ably filled by Barb Yackel fromMinneapolis, MN. Many of you knowBarb as a former skating instructor,skating director, competition judgeand referee, and ISI Conference andiAIM presenter. I will continue to stayactively involved with ISI and its pro-grams and look forward to seeingeveryone at future ISI events! Barb Yackel

*** HOCKEY NOTICE ***Effective September 1, 2003, ISI HockeyMembership Fees are:Youth (17 and under) - $15 per yearAdults (18 and over) - $20 per year

Please be sure to factor these new rates into yourFall Season registration fees.

Over 1,800 skaters representing 123 teams from across the U.S., Thailand, the Philippines, Mexico andAl Nasr competed in the ISI World Recreational Team Championships in Chicago, IL, July 28 – August2, 2003. All of the competitors and coaches are to be commended for outstanding performances andexcellent displays of good sportsmanship and camaraderie. A fun time was had by all.

Due to space limitations, only the top 50 teams’ scores are printed here. For a complete listing of teamsand results, check the ISI Website: www.skateisi.org.

PLACE ARENA POINTS1 . . . . . . . . . . . .Northbrook Sports Center, Northbrook, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .522.52 . . . . . . . . . . .Grand Oaks Ice Arena, Howell, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .345.53 . . . . . . . . . . .Downers Grove Ice Arena, Downers Grove, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .345.04 . . . . . . . . . . .Ice Zone, Boardman, OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .321.55 . . . . . . . . . . .Joliet Park District, Joliet, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .295.06 . . . . . . . . . . .SM SouthMall, Philippines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .291.57 . . . . . . . . . . .City of Southgate Civic Center, Southgate, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .291.08 . . . . . . . . . . .Oakton Ice Arena, Park Ridge, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276.09 . . . . . . . . . . .Robert Crown Ice Center, Evanston, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .257.0

10 . . . . . . . . . . .Athletic Arts Academy, Las Vegas, NV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .231.511 . . . . . . . . . . . .Glenview Ice Center, Glenview, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .200.012 . . . . . . . . . . . .Owens Recreation Center, Peoria, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .188.513 . . . . . . . . . . . .New England Sports Center, Marlboro, MA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .187.014 . . . . . . . . . . . .Rocket Ice Arena, Bolingbrook, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177.015 . . . . . . . . . . . .Galleria Ice Skating Center, Dallas, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .173.016 . . . . . . . . . . . .Franklin Park Ice Arena, Franklin Park, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .172.017 . . . . . . . . . . . .Capitol Gateway East Ice Pavilion, Des Moines, IA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .168.018 . . . . . . . . . . . .World Ice Skating Center, Bankok, Thailand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .166.019 . . . . . . . . . . . .McMillen Ice Arena, Fort Wayne, IN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .159.520 . . . . . . . . . . . .White Bear Lake Sports Center, White Bear Lake, MN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141.521 . . . . . . . . . . . .Melvindale Civic Center, Melvindale, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .136.522 . . . . . . . . . . .SM MegaMall, Philippines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .128.023 . . . . . . . . . . . .Twin Rinks Ice Pavilion, Buffalo Grove, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127.524 . . . . . . . . . . . .Oak Lawn Park District Ice Arena, Oak Lawn, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121.525 . . . . . . . . . . . .Chiller at Easton, Columbus, OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119.026 . . . . . . . . . . . .Fort Myers Skatium, Fort Myers, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117.527 . . . . . . . . . . . .DBL. K Skating School of Excellence, Houston, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114.028 . . . . . . . . . . .McFetridge Sports Center, Chicago, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112.529 . . . . . . . . . . . .Pasadena Ice Skating Center, Pasadena, CA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109.530 . . . . . . . . . . . .St Peters Rec Plex, St Peters, MO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107.531 . . . . . . . . . . . .Tampa Bay Skating Academy, Countryside, Clearwater, Fl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105.532 . . . . . . . . . . .The Ice at Plaza Galleria, Cape Girardeau, MO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .102.033 . . . . . . . . . . . .Line Creek Community Center, Kansas City, MO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101.034 . . . . . . . . . . . .Dr Pepper StarCenter-Euless, Euless, TX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97.535 . . . . . . . . . . . .Wayne Community Center, Wayne, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83.036 . . . . . . . . . . . .Niles Park District Iceland, Niles, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82.037 . . . . . . . . . . . .Hess Ice Rink, New Castle, PA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80.038 . . . . . . . . . . . .Tampa Bay Skating Academy-Oldsmar, Oldsmar, FL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77.539 . . . . . . . . . . . .Farmington Hills Ice Arena, Farmington Hills, MI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73.539 . . . . . . . . . . . .Roseville Ice Skating Center, Roseville, MN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73.541 . . . . . . . . . . . .Parade Ice Garden, Minneapolis, MN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64.542 . . . . . . . . . . . .Pepsi Ice Midwest, Overland Park, KS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62.043 . . . . . . . . . . . .Edge Ice Arenas, Bensenville, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60.544 . . . . . . . . . . . .Benton H. Wilcoxon Ice Complex, Huntsville, AL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59.544 . . . . . . . . . . . .Centennial Sportsplex, Nashville, TN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59.546 . . . . . . . . . . . .Zion Ice Arena, Zion, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57.047 . . . . . . . . . . . .Centennial Ice Rinks, Wilmette, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56.548 . . . . . . . . . . . .Buffalo Figure Skating Club, Buffalo, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51.049 . . . . . . . . . . . .Kettering Adult Figure Skating Club, Kettering, OH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46.549 . . . . . . . . . . . .Polar Dome Ice Arena, Dundee, IL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46.5

2003 ISI World RecreationalTeam Championships Results

26

Mold or "Toxic Mold Syndrome" is a hot topic. Casesof black mold or toxic mold are frequently report-ed in newspapers and industry trade journals. Since

ice arenas can be ideal sources for growth of molds that arehazardous to some individuals, managers and arena opera-tors need to know about this evolving problem. This articleaddresses the basics of the problem and the conditions andchallenges in treating mold areas.

Typical ice arenas operate between 50° and 65° F. As naturewarms and humidifies the outdoors, indoor relative humid-ity can rise. High relative humidity promotes some types ofmold growth. Roof or piping leaks and normal operation oflocker room showers can add moisture to buildings. If thesehigh humidity conditions are not removed, mold contami-nation can result.

Mold spores exist in the air as a normal part of nature. Theycan be found in all indoor and outdoor environments.Atmospheric mold spores are generally dormant until theyfind a receptive area for growth. As mold spores find thisarea, they grow into "Mold" and release more spores andmycotoxins. These mycotoxins and additional spores cancause allergic reactions in some individuals.

California has passed legislation requiring testing of struc-tures to verify the absence of mold contamination. Someinsurance companies have removed general liability cover-age for mold remediation; separate policies have to be pur-chased for "Mold" coverage.

There is much confusion over what is mold contamination.Currently there are no standards for mold concentration andthere is little information available to determine whichmolds are "toxic" and at what levels. While the mold issuehas been publicized as the next "asbestos" remediationopportunity, experts agree that mold does not rise to thislevel of concern. The reality is, mold is present in our envi-ronment and some people seem to be more sensitive thanothers to specific concentrations of mold.

Stachybotrys or "Black Mold" has been identified as a sourceof allergic reaction. Other mold types are being investigated.Penicillium, Aspergillus, Alternaria, Epiccocum, Cladospori-um, and Chaetium are all molds under investigation. Eachmold is promoted by different nutrient source materials andmay cause some allergic reactions in some individuals.

Moisture tends to be the key controllable factor in the activegrowth of mold spores. Low relative humidity or dehumidi-fication will reduce or eliminate the start of mold formations.By maintaining a dry environment, mold spores will nothave a key critical component needed for growth.

It is important to note that once mold is established, it willcreate its own moisture source and can be self-supporting.Drying the environment before remediation is complete can

disburse spores in search of the components needed forgrowth. Uncertainty and fear are currently driving the mar-ket to identify hazardous molds and concentration levels toestablish guidelines for specific health risks.

Mold Growth Is Facilitated by 4 Primary Factors.

Figure 1

Mold growth can be found in exterior and interior walls, insu-lation, ductwork and carpets (See Figure 1 outer ring). Therequirements for active growth of spores (temperature, mois-ture, a nutrient source and the presence of mold spores, asshown in Figure 1-inner circle) facilitate the breeding of mold.

Once mold is established, remediation is required. Mold canform in any area impacted with high humidity. Water leaks,floods or improper humidity control of interior areas canresult in mold growth.

Generally, any mold on porous surfaces such as insulation,ceiling tiles or drywall requires removal by a trained techni-cian and proper disposal and replacement of damaged sur-faces. Once the mold is established, it is virtually impossibleto eradicate.

With virtually every surface a nutrient source, the most con-trollable factor is humidity. The level of humidity control thatis effective varies with the type of spores present. The AmericanSociety of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engi-neers recommended target control level is 40-60% relativehumidity. Most recreational ice arenas do not actively control

Ice Arena Mold Contaminationby Todd Bradley

the edge september/october 2003

the edge september/october 2003 27

temperature. The ambient temperature follows the radiantcooling effect of the ice sheet. Temperatures between 40° and65° F are normal internal temperatures. Because the ice arenais cool, this is a unique challenge for humidity control.

For the past 10 to 12 years, most state-of-the-art ice arenashave incorporated desiccant dehumidification to prevent fogand condensation. By controlling humidity, it improved theefficiency of the ice plant and eliminated condensation.Another benefit was noted, the reduction of odors generallyrelated to musty or moldy conditions.

The recommended control levels to optimize ice arenaoperations is 40% relative humidity at 55°-65°F. Thishumidity level helps indoor air quality by limiting moldgrowth in most parts of the arena. Understanding thebuilding and wall structure is important, as high relativehumidity can reside in enclosed wall spaces or improperlyplaced vapor barriers. Minor leakage from high humidityareas or leaks in vapor barriers can rapidly condense in wallcavities or insulation systems.

Interior mold prevention needs to be taken into accountwhen designing a building. A vapor barrier needs to beplaced closest to the warm surface to reduce the potential forinterior wall condensation. See figure 2. This can be chal-lenging in an ice arena, because some building contractorsplace the vapor barrier on the wrong side of the insulationsystems, allowing water vapor to penetrate through porousinsulation and condense on the "cool side" exposed to the

interior of the ice arena. The ice arena provides a cool surfacein the summer months when the outdoor humidity levelsare the highest.

Continued on page 28...

Figure 2

The most controllable area in ice arenas is the infiltrationand conditioning of outside air. During summer months,outside air brings large quantities of moisture into thecool ice arena. Each 1,000 standard cubic feetper minute (SCFM) of outside air can bring inup to six gallons of water vapor. Typical build-ing codes require small recreational arenas,with less than 200 seats, to bring in up to11,000 SCFM from the outside to maintaingood control of CO2. If this air is brought inunconditioned, the rink can condense 66 gal-lons per hour on the ice sheet and interiorcomponents.

Design recommendations for desiccant dehu-midification systems target a 35°dew pointwith 55° rink conditions. This will provide aninterior relative humidity of approximately40%, which will retard any potential moldformation on most surfaces in the arena. Anyinterior surface will have to be less than 35° Fto condense moisture.

It is important to monitor and maintain proper interiorrelative humidity to eliminate the potential for mold andpromote a healthy environment. In the event of a bro-ken pipe or flooding, it is important to dry the buildingquickly so mold can’t establish itself. Additional rentaldehumidifiers may be required to quickly dry out thestructure. Many water damage contractors have the prop-er tools to quickly dry out a building, so replacement ofwalls and flooring are not required.

If a manager suspects mold contamination what shouldhe/she do? The first issue is to determine the cause andcorrect it. The legal community has targeted mold as apotential health threat. Because children may beinvolved, it is important to react properly and quickly tocorrect the situation. Remediation contractors and micro-biologists recommend complete replacement of contam-inated building products, once mold is present. If the

Moisture tends to

be the key controllable

factor in the active growth

of mold spores.

the edge september/october 2003

existing mold cannot be killed, it can be bleached to stopthe growth, but once the area becomes moist again, themold will continue to grow.

With some molds, quickly drying the space will causethe molds to release more spores in search of a newhome. Tests can be performed by microbiologists todetermine the type of mold and recommended remedi-ation steps.

Most experts agree that the key to mold control is mois-ture control. If remediation is required, the Environmen-tal Protection Agency (EPA) has a "Mold Remediation –Keys, Steps and Resource List" available on the EPA Web-site. Most large communities have water damage remedi-ation contractors available to advise on mold problems.It is important that the selected contractor be trained inmold abatement procedures to ensure proper contain-ment and disposal of damaged building materials. Thebest prevention is to control humidity; however, if moldis present in an ice arena, seek immediate help from qual-ified professionals.

Resource Information:• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,

www.epa.gov/iaq/molds• National Indoor Air Quality Institute,

www.indoor-air-quality.net

References: • ASHRAE Humidity Control Design Guide,

ISBN 1-883413-98-2• ASHRAE IAQ Applications Newsletter, Fall 2002,

"The Proposed Mold Law"• US Environmental Protection Agency, "Mold Remedi-

ation in Schools and Buildings"• National Indoor Air Quality Institute, "Indoor air

Quality Solutions", "Asthma and Indoor Air Quality" • Engineering and Fire Inspections, "Got Mold"

* Todd Bradley is a Dehumidification Specialist with Conceptsand Designs and can be reached at 29235 Lorie Lane, Wixom,MI 48393, phone 248-344-7236, fax 248-344-9401, or by e-mail at [email protected].

28

...Continued from page 27

The recommended control levels to optimize

ice arena operations is 40% relative humidity

at 55° - 65° F.

the edge september/october 200330

tell you if you are leaning toward the scoreboard approachalone, or if in addition to being happy you won, you and yourathletes realize you could have performed at an even higherlevel (mastery approach). This example highlights an impor-tant point—athletes can care about the scoreboard AND take amastery approach simultaneously!

Meyer concludes, “The quality and integrity of a properly man-aged and coached sports program begins with the proper edu-cation of its leadership. This leadership, when properly appliedin a sports setting, can teach many lifelong lessons that willhelp this nation’s children grow physically, mentally, and emo-tionally.” As youth sport coaches, we must work to give ourathletes a voice and a leadership role within our programs. Thiswill likely move our athletes toward the mastery approach tolearning, which will help them both on and off the ice.

Take-Aways

• Look for ways to include your athletes in contributing to thedirection of their development. Treat meetings as “conver-sations” in which athletes have a voice. In a setting wherethe athletes feel they have a voice, they will be better moti-vated to focus on giving maximum effort, continuouslylearning and improving, and not letting fear of mistakes hin-der their performance or their enjoyment of the sport (ELM).

• Remember that the timing of your feedback (not just thecontent) and your body language speak strongly to your ath-letes. During practice and competitions, take a second tocheck your body language and expressions. When your ath-letes make a mistake, does your hand fly to your forehead?Make sure your body language reinforces the fact that youthink mistakes are OK.

• As youth sport coaches, we can take this finding as a strongreminder that we need to work hard to maintain a 5:1praise/criticism ratio with our athletes. Even when we feelwe are being exceptionally positive, it is likely that our ath-letes aren’t feeling an identical level of positivism. They hearour corrections louder than we speak them, and they oftenremember these corrections much longer than our praise.Remember that all of these six pieces of feedback (five plus-es and one minus) are coaching! When I first started coach-ing, I thought my main job was to correct my athletes’ mis-takes, and I now realize that an extremely important part ofmy job is to reinforce what my athletes are doing well. Theydon’t always know what they are doing well, and when Ihighlight these positives with praise, I am more likely to seethese good things happen again!

* Tina Syer is the Director of Partner Programs for Positive Coach-ing Alliance (www.positivecoach.org), an ISI partner.

How does our behavior as coaches impact our athletes?If we constantly correct our athletes and dictate theirevery move, rather than point out what they do well

and let them play a role in leading their own development,what sort of results can we expect?

In 1998, Dr. James L. Meyer completed a study, Leadership Per-ceptions and Achievement Motivation in Sport, and found that “Theimpact of appropriate coaching behaviors on motivation andathletic performance cannot be overemphasized. The involve-ment of athletes and their subsequent success in athletics isoften determined by their interactions with their coach.”

Previous research in this area found that athletes respond notonly to informational content given by coaches, but also tomessages coaches may unknowingly communicate through themanner or timing of instruction.

Meyer’s study included 332 alpine ski racers and 345 coaches.He compared athletes’ perceptions of their coaches’ behavior tothe coaches’ perceptions of their own behavior. Meyer foundthat “alpine skiing coaches perceived themselves as providingmore positive feedback than alpine skiing athletes perceivethem to provide.” In other words, the coaches felt theywere being more positive with their athletes than theathletes felt they were being.

Meyer also examined whether or not there is a relationshipbetween athletes’ type of achievement motivation (in PCAspeak—either “mastery” or “scoreboard” orientation) and theirperceptions of their coaches’ leadership behavior. Meyer foundthat the single behavior found to enhance mastery orientationamong alpine ski racers is Democratic Behavior, and the singlecoach leadership behavior found to enhance scoreboard ori-entation among alpine ski racers is Autocratic Behavior.

At PCA, we talk about getting our athletes to expand their focusfrom the scoreboard to include the ELM tree (focusing onEffort, Learning, and remembering that Mistakes are aninevitable part of the learning process). The ELM Tree is ourshorthand memory aid for mastery orientation. What Meyer’sstudy shows is that when coaches give their athletes more of avoice in team leadership, rather than taking an autocraticapproach, the athletes tend to focus more on constant learningand improvement and are not focused solely on winning. Inthis mastery-oriented environment, athletes consistently strivefor improvement; this is their primary goal.

From the coaching perspective, I certainly like the idea of myathletes continually pushing themselves to improve. Can youthink of competitions where your skaters came out ahead onthe scoreboard, but did not perform to their potential? Look-ing at how you and your skaters respond in cases like this can

How Coaches’ BehaviorImpacts Athletes’ Motivationby Tina Syer

the edge september/october 2003 31

ISI Electronic Communications ToolsAs part of our continued efforts to better communicate with members, ISI is adding THREE valuable new tools to itsincreasing arsenal of electronic communications.

• ISI Update is a timely communique e-mailed to the various segments of ISI’s membership (Administrative,Associate, Builder/Supplier). ISI Updates include everything from event information to rule changes to arenaindustry news alerts to vendor leads. ISI Updates are specifically targeted to membership groups on a need-to-know basis.

• ISI Online is a new, condensed version of the ISI EDGE industry-leading magazine in electronic format, sent viae-mail. Initially we plan to deliver ISI Online bi-monthly in the months between ISI EDGE issues. If we find thatthere is pertinent news that needs to be communicated more frequently, we will increase the frequency.

• ISI Forums, a new discussion group site, will soon be added to the ISI web site: www.skateisi.org. These discus-sion forums are designed to provide ISI members the opportunity to post questions or raise issues of interest andreceive answers/feedback from other members. Hopefully, the Forums will serve to provide a quick, efficient, andcost-effective means of information sharing among ISI members.

To be added to ISI’s e-mail address list so you receive the latest information in a timely manner and can participatein forum discussions, please send your name, ISI membership category and ISI number, zip code and current e-mailaddress to ISI at [email protected].

the edge september/october 200332

Mid-Atlantic Arena ManagersAssociation (MAMA)by Trudy Ivory

Due to the usual summer schedulingconflicts and activities plannedwith our members, we cancelledthe July MAMA meeting. I’m not

sure about you, but is time fly-ing at your facility too? Iswear I just melted the ice a

few weeks ago and now I’mready to put my “To Do” list up to get

ready to freeze water! I’m afraid it may have something todo with getting older.

The next MAMA meeting is scheduled for October 22 at thenew Alice Nobel Arena in Wooster, Ohio. ISI RepresentativeMargy Bennett has requested a combined MAMA and ISI Dis-trict 7 meeting for this date. We will also have a speaker ona new program, “Soccer on Ice,” and we hope to have a Zam-boni representative present. Mark your calendars now andplan to attend the October meeting. With this much advancenotice of date and location, we should have good atten-dance. Right, MAMA members?

This report is short and sweet, but I promise to make up forit after our October meeting. Happy ice season!

Wisconsin Ice Arena Mangers Association(WIAMA)by Jeff Michalek, Eble Ice Arena

With summer slipping by, it’s time to begin planning foranother long and grueling hockey season. With this in mind,emphasis is on fall and preparing for what’s to come. Whilesome facilities prepare to put their ice in, others have been upand running all summer. In any case, the time has come tostart thinking about the importance of those seemingly rou-tine maintenance practices that are so vital to our success.

WIAMA’s Fall Fire-Up Workshop, a one-day training sessionavailable to all member facility employees will take place atthe Pettit Ice Center in Milwaukee on August 21. The Work-shop offers a day of free training sessions on various mainte-nance topics and also enables members to interact and toshare ideas. For some, it’s a time to bring employees who usu-ally don’t attend the annual WIAMA Spring Conference.

This year’s unique location may offer some additional arena insightsas the Pettit Center boasts two Olympic-sized ice sheets surround-ed by a full-size skating oval. A brief history and behind the scenestour of the facility will kick off the morning’s agenda. Topics willinclude: Building Operations, Arena Start-up Tips, Ice Quality, andResurfacer Preventative Maintenance. Along with lunch, there willbe vendor tables offering product information. Hopefully everyonewill leave with fresh ideas to utilize in their workplace.

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In an effort to reach out to more non-member rinks, WIAMAis moving its next Spring Conference from its traditionalWisconsin Dells location to Mishicot south of Green Bay,near Lake Michigan. The focus for this year is attracting newmember participation from the northern part of Wisconsinas well as the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and the northernIllinois area. Planning for the Spring Conference begins atthe September board meeting. See you in the Fall.

For more information on WIAMA or to get on our mailing list,contact Nancy Hacker, c/o WIAMA, 700 Shady Lane, Neenah,WI 54956, or call Nancy at 920-731-9731, extension 10.

Metropolitan Ice Rink Managers Association(MIRMA)by Judith P. Sniffen, President

The ISI Annual Conference is behind us, and what a confer-ence it was. I for one was very surprised to be the recipientof the Great Skate Award. A special thank you to Katy Hay-den and her committee. The awards ceremony was the bestyet. The District III award was presented to Carola Dietl, whois very deserving of this honor. To be recognized by our peersis a real compliment.

At this writing MIRMA is getting ready for its annual execu-tive board meeting to be held at the lovely home of Janetand Barry Wolken.

The District III Fall Instructors Seminar will be held at FloydHall Arena. Speakers will be Margy Bennett, Carola Mandev-ille, Lisa Fedick and others to be announced. We plan to havean ISI hockey coach as an additional speaker.

The 4th Annual MIRMA/District III Trade Show will be held onOctober 28, 2003 at the Danbury Skating Rink in Danbury, CT.This meeting will be the first of many to be held jointly withNEISMA. The day will begin with a continental breakfast fol-lowed by a short business meeting. Topics to be covered include“Understanding and Implementing the ISI Program to IncreaseYour Bottom Line.” We have invited Peter Martell and PattiFeeney from the ISI office to give this presentation. There willalso be a presentation on Cleaning and Sanitation which willinclude restrooms, food service and common areas and willalso address problems associated with mold. During lunch,attendees will have the opportunity to visit our exhibitors’booths and meet our local vendors. At the close of the day, doorprizes will be awarded. We look forward to seeing you on Octo-ber 28. For more information, contact Judy Sniffen by e-mail [email protected] or call 516-628-2240.

North East Ice Skating Managers Association(NEISMA)by Tom Morton, President

NEISMA’s First Vice President, Jeff Bardwell, has beenappointed the Arena and Properties Manager at the EverettArena in Concord, NH. This appointment is an excellent stepforward for Jeff. The NEISMA Board and the ice arena indus-try congratulate him on his new appointment. He will do anexcellent job as he always does.

Some readers have inquired about NEISMA’s publication, theRINK RAT. NEISMA appreciates such reader interest. Transfer

of responsibilities as well as the physical location, has result-ed in some delays on publication dates. We assure all ourreaders that publication of the RINK RAT should proceedsmoothly in the future.

The NEISMA Board is working on our Fall Conference as wellas making preparations for the 2004 Spring Conference. TheNEISMA Spring Conference is tentatively scheduled for April7-9, 2004, somewhere in the Boston area. More details will beprovided in subsequent NEISMA reports. Mark your calendars.

Safety matters affecting ice arenas continue to be an ongoingconsideration for the NEISMA Board of Directors. A newNEISMA Safety Committee has been appointed. The newcommittee will address safety issues and will be the sourceof safety materials for NEISMA members. Another functionof the NEISMA Safety Committee will be to address rink safe-ty policies as well as cost considerations.

NEISMA has received recent inquiries regarding soft ice.There has been at least one recent injury incident allegedlyresulting from the presence of soft ice. NEISMA advises rinkmanagers to remain alert to this condition.

We know articles in the RINK RAT are being read because wecontinue to receive requests for articles that were printed inback issues.

Board member Deane Pomeroy continues to have an exchangeof ideas with MIRMA regarding possible future seminars.

NEISMA is considering having one-day seminars in varioussections of the Northeast. Various Board members haveaccepted responsibility for conducting these seminars.

Board member Jim McMorrow, who serves as the Chairper-son for NEISMA’s “Nuts and Bolts” column in the RINK RAT,reports that he is in a position to provide responses to ques-tions pertaining to the operation of ice rinks. Anyone havinga hands-on question pertaining to ice rink operations shouldsend their questions to Jim McMorrow or to the RINK RAT.Jim’s e-mail address is [email protected].

Minnesota Ice Arena Managers Association(MIAMA)by Chadd Benson, MIAMA District 7 Representative

The latest MIAMA board meeting was held at the BuffaloCivic Center in Buffalo MN. The main topic of discussionwas the Annual Fall Conference scheduled to be held atBreezy Point Resort located North of Brainerd, MN, Septem-ber 3-5. The three-day conference, with a theme of “Healthy,Wealthy and Wise,” is packed with interesting topics gearedto inform us on our own health and wellness as well as teachus to prepare our facilities. Some of the topics are Safety andCompliance, Personal Wellness, Facility Wellness, and Facil-ity First Aid. There will be free personal wellness testing forinterested members. The board is also very excited to haveguest speakers Mike Goldberg, NHL television analyst for theMinnesota Wild, as well as John Paulson, PERA (PublicEmployees Retirement Association) representative.

MIAMA is looking for a new office location. Currently,the office is located at the Richfield Civic Arena. Long-

Advertisers Index

time Richfield manager and MIAMA treasurer Al Paynewill be stepping away from his MIAMA duties effectiveSeptember 2004.

MIAMA is accepting applications for the James PadgettAward, an award given to an arena that demonstrates pridein the community through programs, renovations, man-agement, innovative ideas, creative budgeting and efficientoperation. The winning facility receives a plague as well asfree lodging and registration to the WIAMA (WisconsonIce Arena Managers Association). The James Padgett awardwill be presented at the MIAMA Fall Conference.

If you’re not a current MIAMA member and would like toknow more about us, please contact Al Payne at (612)-861-9351 or visit our Web site at www.Rinkfinder.com. I hopeeveryone has had a great summer. We look forward to seeingyou at the Fall Conference in September.

Athletica Inc./Crystaplex . . . . . . . . . . .8

Bonestroo & Associates . . . . . . . . . . .12

Canlan Ice Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Commercial Refrigeration . . . . . . . .OBC

Concepts & Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Covermaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Ed K Ice Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Facility Management Corp . . . . . . . .13

FrontLine Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35

Goldner Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Honco Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Ice Builders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

Jet Ice Ltd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

K&K Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Maximum Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Mollenberg/Betz Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Mondo USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .IBC

Rice Specialty Risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Richardson Group, The . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Riedell Skate Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Rink Management Services . . . . . . . .21

SP-Teri Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

VSC Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Zamboni . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

the edge september/october 200336

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER2003

NewRinks/Clubs/SchoolsLe Colisee LtdMichael P Rudman210 Michael DrSyosset, NY 11791Ph 516-921-0902Fax 516-921-8743

Palm Beach Ice ZoneMike Bunting8125 Lake Worth RdLake Worth, FL 33467Ph 561-963-5900Fax 561-963-5970

The Skate School LLC @ Fox Valley

Diane Dailing1996 S Kirk RdGeneva, IL 60134Ph 630-262-0690Fax 630-262-1388

Smooth Surfaces Ltd dbaCommunity RecreationCenter

Michael Ball5165 E Remus RdMt Pleasant, MI 48858Ph 989-772-9623Fax 989-772-8031

New Builders/SuppliersFabric & GlitzMary Kaulfers282 McHenry RoadBuffalo Grove, IL 60089Ph 847-808—0400Fax 847-808-3345

Prod East VideoJon Cromer66 White Farms RdSaratoga, NY 12866Ph 518-587-4853Fax 518-584-7359

New Retail MerchantsUS IcewearSusy Huss67 34th StBrooklyn, NY 11232Ph 718-499-1955Fax 718-499-1982

New Associate MembersBaker, Sandra - COBuchanan, Kristy - CAButler, Karen - SCDillon, Ryan - MA

Feldt, Sarah - MIFord, Annie - FLGraham, Cheryl - NVGray, Madori - ILHorn, Jennifer - WAHoyt, Patricia - AZHumphrey, Melissa - DEKernodle, Amanda - AKKirihara, Yui - CAKrutz, Emily - NYLarson, Sarah - MNLehman, Adrianne - TXLiles, Sherra - FLMarino, Amy - ILMorrow, Scott - TXMoses, Nicole - GANewman, Brad - CANielson, Sandra - CAParks, Elizabeth - ILRoberts, Mary - ILRoyer, Nancy - PASkowron, Christien - PASmith, Katie - FLTerakura, Cherie - COVick, Bryan - FL Weiss, Everett - ORWhite, Robert - MD

Judges PassCertification Update

Test

Congratulations to the following ISIBronze, Silver and Gold judges whopassed their certification update test

as of July 22, 2003:

Catherine A. Baran

John Bierma

Sheri Feustel-Leatherman

Rosalind Giuliette

Sharon Niewinski

Anne Raucci

James Santee

in Years…..and Your Name Can be All Over It” — obviouslystruck a chord, and it didn’t take long for the Jamestown Sav-ings Bank to recognize the potential of being the buildingsponsor. The local bank is a strong supporter of Jamestown,with branches all over the area, and plans to expand further.It seemed to be a natural fit. The Jamestown Ice Arena - stillbeing constructed - would henceforth be known as theJamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena. Everyone agreed; thename had a great ring to it!

Building Excitement

Program planning, which had been tweaked and worked overfor months, began in earnest. Over the years, Rink Manage-ment has been very successful atstarting innovative programs at itsdifferent rinks, including programsthat do more than just fill a facility’scoffers, and are particularly appeal-ing to municipal owners. ReadingRewards programs with libraries,Rock ‘n Skate programs geared tokeeping younger teens entertained,creative marketing events like On-IceTurkey Bowling, Beach Parties andChristmas in July have helped keepRMS-managed rinks full.

Jamestown seemed like a perfectplace to work on one particularly successful program thatcombines skating and education. After all, there are thou-sands of ice skaters in Jamestown, and thousands of school-age children who aren’t, but might like to be!

Working with the Jamestown High School, RMS began a pro-gram that works ice skating into the high school’s physical edu-cation program. Every day, as many as 150 high school stu-dents come to the arena to skate and fulfill their gym require-ments. At the same time, they are learning something abouthow an ice rink – and their bodies – works. They tour the phys-ical plant of the ice rink, they learn stretching and balance tech-niques, and they have a great time in the process. Along withfigure skating, they also play modified hockey and broomball.

The building has also become a prime place for holding localevents. Each April, the Skating Academy and the JSC puttogether a skating show called “Excellence on Ice,” that high-lights the talents of JSC skaters. They produce another showcalled the “Chautauqua Winter Challenge” to generate figureskating excitement in January.

“Skate Chautauqua” each August raises the bar to a higherlevel with an internationally recognized premier competi-tion known for high-level judges and national and interna-tional competitors. And, this past year, the Ice Theater ofNew York made the Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena theirsummer home, providing local ice skaters with the opportu-nity to watch professional ice skaters practice on a regularbasis – including the breathtaking dancing and jumps thatare a regular part of their routines.

In addition, the arena has been the site of several hockeytournaments and events during its first year. There was aThanksgiving Tournament; the Presidents’ Tournament anda Small High School States Tournament sponsored by

CCYHA; the St. Patrick’s Hockey Tournament for adults; anda New York State Midget Minor States tournament.

The McFall Brothers Hockey Camp gave area youth a chanceto have some fun while improving their hockey skills; andthe Rotary Club hosted a Sabres Alumni vs. area youth hock-ey coaches game. The latter was made extra special becauseit was supported by out-of-towners who were family mem-bers of Lucille Ball, a Jamestown native who will always bethe city’s favorite daughter.

Off-ice events are also proving popular at the arena. “A Taste ofJamestown” filled local stomachs; the Highland Tattoo broughtin Scottish dancers and entertainment; the Pepsi Early Bird

Hockey Tournament and a NatureArts Festival in August brought visi-tors to Jamestown and the sur-rounding area. The arena has beenthe site of activities as diverse as abuilders’ show, church services, box-ing events, a “Smoke-Out”, a cancersymposium, and the local highschool graduation.

Still to come at the arena is a circusin September. In October, The Skat-ing Academy and the JSC will hostthe North Atlantic Regional SkatingCompetition. And teen dances are

a popular on-going event.

It’s a thriving and happy ice arena, and has been a spectacu-lar success with residents and visitors alike.

Revitalization

But, the purpose of building the arena was twofold. Whatabout generating new growth and movement for downtownJamestown?

Here again, things are looking promising. As we go to press,a new Best Western Hotel is under construction across fromthe arena, and there is talk of another hotel being built in anearby location.

The Jamestown Savings Bank has also moved its headquar-ters downtown (there’s this great ice arena there with a terrificname…..). Real estate sales of available development sites arebooming, and several new restaurants have opened in thedowntown area.

The Directors of the Gebbie Foundation couldn’t be happier.The Foundation, supported by a fortune derived from theMohawk Condensed Milk Company, has a mandate to“improve the quality of life in Chautauqua County.” You’dbe hard pressed to find anyone in Jamestown, New York, whowouldn’t agree that the Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arenahas done just that – in spades.

* Sara Meyerdierks Hillgrove serves as the Director of Com-munications/Public Relations for Rink Management ServicesCorporation. Ms. Hillgrove teaches writing at the Universityof Richmond, and has published in the The New York Timesand The Wall Street Journal, as well as in many other news-papers and magazines around the country.

Jamestown Savings Bank

Ice Arena has “given

downtown Jamestown a

whole new lease on life.”

— Dr. Thomas Cardman

the edge september/october 2003 37

...Continued from page 20

the edge september/october 200338

Welcome to the beginning ofanother skating season. Atthe May ISI Conference

and Trade Show in Las Vegas, Liz Fol-ger from Dr Pepper StarsCenters inDallas, ISI District 11 Board Represen-tative, presented a timely workshopon getting organized. Now is youropportunity to get ready for theupcoming skating season. This is agreat time to clean out obsolete files,write the arena schedule for the year,create fliers for the hockey and skat-ing programs, implement a marketingplan, and generally get set for thestarting gun.

Write the schedule. Be sure to include:• Holiday hours• School vacations• Learn to skate semesters• Hockey clinics and camps• Tournaments and competitions• Ice shows• Hockey association hours• Figure skating club hours• Any and all special eventsPost a master schedule in the buildingfor easy access by staff members.Throughout the year, if things change –CHANGE THE CALENDAR!

Begin immediately to schedule:• Staff meetings• Staff training sessions (include a

review of the current policies)• Ice resurfacer maintenance• Ice maintenance (painting, logo

installation, edging, etc.)• Facility maintenance (parking lot

repairs, painting, flooring, etc.)• Educational opportunities (ISI Con-

ference and Trade Show, iAIMSchool)

Now is the time to look at theseissues and address them early in theseason.

Spend a day with key personnel walkingthrough the facility and identifying areasthat need improvement. Take a close lookat water fountains, video games, rentalskates, locker rooms, and all public areas.The impression formed by the facility’sclientele is critical to the facility’s success.Talk to your customers and create a feed-back form to learn what needs improving,as well as, what is going well.

Analyze the reporting systems in thearena. Are the following complete andthorough:• Accident reports• Rental skate repair log• Ice maintenance log• Refrigeration equipment logs• Resurfacer maintenance logHaving the above on file will assist intracking repairs and satisfying liabilityissues.

Is the facility ready for the new season?If planning and organizing are doneearly in the season it leaves time tofocus on customer service, marketingand growing the business.

GOOD LUCK – HAVE A GREAT SKATE!

by Patti Feeney, ISI Director of Member Programs and Services