The Town Council received an update regarding the ice rink season from the Cape Community Arena (CCA) during the February 13, 2023 council meeting.  Scott Liston, a representative for CCA, reported that the temporary ice rink has been a "huge success."  The rink averages six hours of usage daily and has seen operating expenses come in as anticipated, "Expenses have been right in line as expected at $20,000; $10,000 for energy and $10,000 for the chiller and other maintenance items," Liston said.  For next year's finances, Liston explained that this equates to approximately three hours of ice rental each day.  "We are in a pretty good place when it comes to finances," he added.

Highlights of the season include the Cape Elizabeth High School Girls' Junior Varsity hockey team being able to play games for their first time in several seasons; increased days of practice times for both the Boys' Junior Varsity and Varsity hockey teams; and a wide range of ages utilizing the rink.  Liston said that from the Learn To Skate programs for 4-7 year olds to the 60 years and older hockey league, "It's been used by all demographics in town."  Aside from programs offered through Community Services, "Most everything has been free," Liston said. 

Before the chiller is removed on March 10, the Cape Community Arena will hold a "Rink Fest" on Friday, March 3 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. in celebration of a successful first season.  The fest will include food trucks, music, raffles, silent auction, and the Maine Mariner's mascot, Beacon.  The event is free and open to the public, but donations in support of next year's operations are encouraged.

Photos courtesy of Cape Community Arena.