RINK: Real asset for community

The LCDC/KYRO partnership is a win-win for our community.

I've been involved in youth hockey in this community for the past 11 years. I have served on the board of directors of the Coeur d'Alene Hockey Association through most of those years helping to guide our organization through two rink closures and one rink collapse.

For years I've heard our membership bemoan the absence of a permanent place to call home. I'm excited to say that thanks to the LCDC/KYRO Community partnership and others who are now stepping up in support, we are close to making that dream a reality.

The past two years have been difficult for our hockey and figure skating families. Once again our youth organizations has been forced to become nomadic, traveling distances of up to one hour each way, 2-3 times per week for practices, many times getting home at midnight. It's just not sustainable, nor cost effective and our organization numbers have dwindled down to a mere shadow of what they were in 2008.

When the KYRO arena is completed, our community will be the beneficiary of one of the top ice facilities in the state of Idaho as well as a nearly $4 million community asset.

Bravo to the leadership of LCDC who recognized the economic and social value of making an investment in North Idaho's only community ice arena.

JOHN GIVENS

Post Falls