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Home , Alexei Yagudin, Figure skate, Ice hockey rink, Ice Skating Institute, Ice XVI, Roller skating

May/June 2003

SnowSnow andand IceIce BeckonBeckon inin BreckenridgeBreckenridge

Also Inside: Tribute to Fritz Dietl Hire Attitude; Train Skills 30 Tips to Improve Your Trade Show Experience

volume 5, number 6 may/june 2003 contents Publisher Ice Skating Institute Hire Attitude; Train Skills ...... 12 by Andy Deyo Editor Dianne Powell 7 Tips to Keeping Good People ...... 12 Editorial Advisors by Emily Huling Peter Martell Patti Feeney Evaluation Supports Excellence ...... 14 Print Production and by Tina Syer Advertising Sales Manager Carol Jackson Reflections on Skating ...... 16 Art Director by Dianne Powell Cindy Winn Livingston

Contributors 30 Tips to Improve Your Trade Show Andy Deyo Experience ...... 21 Jeffrey Doucette Susan A. Friedman by Susan A. Friedman Emily Huling Tina Syer Snow and Ice Beckon in Breckenridge . . . . .22 Photo provided by the Town of Photo Breckenridge provided by the Town Stephen C. West Ice Arena The ISI EDGE (USPS 017-078, Tribute to Fritz Dietl ...... 26 ISSN 1522-4651) is published bimonthly; January/February, by Dianne Powell March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, Energy Saving Tips ...... 38 November/December; by the by Jeffrey Doucette Ice Skating Institute, 17120 N. Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 140, Dallas, TX 75248-1187. Annual Subscription Rate is $24.00 per ALSO IN THIS ISSUE year. Periodicals postage paid at Dallas, TX, and at additional What to Do When a Customer Is Unhappy ...... 12 mailing offices.

POSTMASTER NOTE: Send Adult Championships Team Entry Form ...... 30 address changes to ISI EDGE, c/o The Ice Skating Institute, Adult Championships Individual Entry Form ...... 32 17120 N. Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 140, Dallas, TX, 75248-1187. Coaches Corner ...... 36 Printed in the U.S.A. Bronze Certification Test Online ...... 41 Subscriptions available through membership only. Classified Ads ...... 41 ©2003 by the Ice Skating Institute. Reproduction in New ISI Manuals Available ...... 45 whole or in part is prohibited unless expressly authorized in writing by publisher. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed by contributors do not neces- DEPARTMENTS sarily represent the views of the Ice Skating Institute, the CROSSCUTS News and Notes ...... 4 publisher or the advertisers. Submissions of manuscripts, CALENDAR ISI Endorsed Competitions, Shows/Exhibitions ...... 18 materials, photographs, and artwork are made at mailer’s risk and must include self- ICE ARENA ASSOCIATIONS NEWS ...... 34 addressed envelope with suffi- cient postage for return. No GETTING CONNECTED ...... 42 responsibility will be assumed for unsolicited materials. ISI ADVERTISERS INDEX ...... 43 reserves the right to edit mate- rial submitted for content and ISIA EDUCATION FOUNDATION REPORT ...... 45 space consideration. Asiaf Skating Arena Hosts Special Ed Students

Each year Asiaf Skating Arena, home of the Bay State Blades in Brockton, MA, Dedicated to providing leadership, provides 150 special education students education, and services to the from area schools a chance they might ice skating industry. not otherwise have. The students don ice skating institute ice skates and glide around the arena as 17120 N. Dallas Parkway, Suite 140 Dallas, TX 75248-1187 CrossCuts part of their physical education pro- Phone: (972) 735-8800 gram. Students participate in two, six- Fax: (972) 735-8815 news and notes week sessions. Afterwards, each student e-mail: [email protected] www.skateisi.org is given an individual skating challenge based on ability, and when they meet isi international headquarters staff Illinois Legislature to Consider Skating Executive Director their challenge they are awarded a Peter Martell Bill medal from Special Olympics of MA. Managing Director, Facility Management Corporation, Member Programs and Services Rep. Sidney Mathias, R-Buffalo Grove, which operates Asiaf Skating Arena, Patti Feeney Controller introduced a bill to create an ice rink provides free ice time and rental skates Karen Schaffer safety code after an ice arena owner in in recognition of the program’s value. Membership Coordinator the Chicago suburbs closed his business Kimberley Russelle Editor to the public after an accident caused New Owner for Murray Sandler Skate Dianne Powell his insurance rates to soar. The bill & Rink Supply Advertising Sales and would require owners to post signs Print Production Manager Carol Jackson about the dangers of ice skating and Murray Sandler, former president of the National Events Coordinator and would require skaters to heed the warn- Ice Skating Institute, member of the ISI Skating Program Director ings and skate “with reasonable control Hall of Fame and ISI Lifetime Achieve- Lynn Roseberry and speed.” Mathias said, “People fall Administrative Assistant ment Award recipient, has sold the com- Kathy Chase down all the time, and they shouldn’t pany he founded almost 45 years ago to Art Director be able to sue the rink if they (rink own- Jay Muirr. Sandler reports that Muirr has Cindy Winn Livingston ers) have done everything properly.” Information Services Coordinator been in the hockey retail business for Jeff Anderson several years and sought to change from Sponsorship Sales Manager RDV Sportsplex Offers Online Shopping retail to wholesale. “It’s a good fit for him Stuart Sedransky and me,” said Murray, who invites every- Telephone 972-735-8800 RDV Sportspex in Orlando, FL has one to stop by the Murray Sandler Skate isi officers launched an online shopping website. & Rink Supply booth at the ISI Trade President Jim Lange Items for sale include RDV Sportsplex Show to meet Muirr. The company name 1st Vice President Mike Paikin apparel, college hockey jerseys, novel- will remain and Sandler will stay with 2nd Vice President Gerry Hart ty items and official Orlando Magic Treasurer Jim Hartnett the company on a part-time basis as a Secretary Terry Juliar merchandise. RDV Sportsplex is a consultant/adviser. Immediate Past President Boyd Wietecter 365,00-square-foot, $60 million, state- of-the-art fitness, wellness, sports and directors recreation facility owned by RDV District 1 Katy Hayden District 2 Robyn Bentley Sports and Florida Hospital. It features District 3 Richard Arenella a full-service athletic club, tennis cen- District 4 Jeff Doucette ter, two ice rinks, pro shops, café, salon District 5 Shane Douglas District 6 Carol Burns and spa, medical offices, corporate District 7 Margy Bennett offices and training facilities for the District 8 Spiro Giotis NBA’s Orlando Magic. District 9 Ginger Krueger District 10 Barb Yackel District 11 Liz Folger Wild Winter Warm-Up Raises Money District 12 Tim Johnson District 13 Janice Teodoro Forbes for Charities District 14 Paige Scott District 15 Donald Bartelson District 16 Cindy Solberg Hundreds of people attended the District 17 Jos Pronk fourth annual Wild Winter Warm-Up District 18 Jean-Claude Detre and “Stew-Off” cooking contest at the Hockey Jay Wescott Danbury Ice Arena in Danbury, CT in Builders & Suppliers Doug Peters Murray Sandler Instructors Dianne DeLeeuw March. The event, organized by Dan- Commercial Rinks Andy Deyo bury’s mayor and first lady, featured Public Rinks Al Tyldesley Schools, Colleges, Universities family activities, raffles, prizes, face Riedell Unveils New Boots PSA Representative Gerry Lane painting, clowns, a disc jockey, and a USFSA Representative Homer Hagedorn Lifetime Honorary Member Carol Zdziebko live orchestra. Money raised benefits Riedell Skate Company recently local charities. announced the release of three new 4 the edge may/june 2003 boots. The Elite HLS 1500 with the new it an excellent choice for instructional resurfacing machines at the ISI Confer- Heel Lock Stabilizer, a patent-pending level skaters. The Gold Medallion 300 ence and Trade Show in Las Vegas, NV, design configured to eliminate heel slip- features a rolled top collar, extended May 27-29, 2003. page and increase a skater’s comfort, is open-throat design and heat activated ideal for advanced competitive skaters. form fit reinforcements. The Nissan 2.5 liter fuel-injected engine The HLS 1500 is equipped with a triple that powers the Model 540 provides laminated comfort tongue for support, FMC Facilities Partner with Career additional resurfacing power while a ribbed forefoot flex design for indi- Exploration Life Skills Program maintaining the fuel efficiency of a vidualized fit and comfort, and an anti- four-cylinder engine. The 540 has a rotational tongue lace bar designed to A working partnership between Navin Sundstrand 44 series hydrostatic trans- eliminate tongue rotation. Arena and Marlborough (MA) High mission with a loop flusher for School’s Career Exploration Life Skills enhanced performance and features the Riedell’s Yellow Ribbon 110 is designed Program is allowing special needs stu- latest designed conditioner from Zam- for the occasional skater who wants qual- dents to explore jobs at the Navin boni. While maintaining its unmatched ity and value. The Yellow Ribbon 110’s Arena. Twice a week students perform shaving performance, Zamboni has cre- quilted, soft lining provides comfort and maintenance tasks at the rink while ated an easier to service bearing location maintenance-free performance. It fea- learning what the work world is like for the horizontal auger. tures a low profile forward flex design, and what skills they may have to help reinforced uppers, foam quarter padding, them cope. The school rotates students In the continuing legacy of its a split comfort tongue and PVC mainte- between the Navin facility and other founder, Frank Zamboni, the Zamboni nance-free outsoles. The Riedell Ribbon businesses. A similar program is hosted Company works to continually inno- Series is designed specifically for the by Fitzpatrick Arena in Holyoke, MA. vate and build the best ice resurfacing beginner and recreational skater. In addi- Both facilities are operated by Facility machine for ice rinks and arenas tion to the Yellow Ribbon 110, other Management Corporation. throughout the world. styles include the Blue Ribbon 121, Red Ribbon 117, and White Ribbon 112. Zamboni 540 to Be Introduced at ISI Athletica’s New GlassFlex System The new Riedell Gold Medallion 300 Trade Show Exceeds NHL Standards features a patent-pending design configured to eliminate heel slippage and The Zamboni Company will introduce Extensive testing by a Denver-based increase comfort and control, making the latest in its popular 500 Series of ice engineering firm confirms that Athlet- Continued on page 6...

the edge may/june 2003 5 ...Continued from page 5 ica’s redesigned GlassFlex seamless glass Nose Creek Recreation and Library Cen- coach from Oceanside, CA, is a Positive hockey dasher shielding system tre. The $32.6 million, 194,000-square- Coaching Alliance trainer. exceeds the flexibility criteria mandat- foot centre will include a triple gymnasi- ed by the NHL by up to 55%. The um, two NHL-sized hockey rinks, and • Matt Foye is the new arena manag- league required that by the beginning aquatics and fitness centres. er at Bridgeton Ice Arena in North of the 2003/2004 season all NHL facili- Bridgeton, ME. ties that use seamless glass must be in • Aberdeen, SD – Construction on compliance with the flexibility stan- the new, roughly $2 million ice arena • Congratulations to Andrew, Jean- dard. Tests included simulation of both addition to the Holum Expo Building nie and Annelise Foland on the “soft” and “hard” player impacts on is almost complete. In addition to impending birth of a new addition to the end, side and radius panels. The the second sheet of ice, the facility is their family, due November 19. Andrew new, improved GlassFlex exceeded the gaining six locker rooms, a new con- is the skating director and Jeannie is an soft hit criteria by up to 55% and the cession stand and a second floor instructor at Aerodrome Ice Skating hard hit criteria by up to 21%. over-looking both rinks. Work Complex Willowbrook in Houston, TX. should be completed by early sum- Andrew proposed to Jeannie during the The new version of GlassFlex allows mer. Bleachers to accommodate 2001 ISI Conference in Las Vegas. the glass channel to slide back and 1,800 to 2,000 people will be added forth upon impact. The improved as funds are raised. design allows the glass to be easily adjusted without shims. The glass • Nashua, NH – A new single sheet stands straight and true without clips. facility with the potential to expand to In addition, by utilizing a laminate a double sheet is under construction called PowerPlate from Clear Defense, with plans to open this fall. the thinner glass (1/2” vs. 5/8” on the radius and ends) is easier to move • Martha’s Vineyard, MA – A new because of the reduced weight. Other addition, being built on the island’s ice changes include a newly designed gas- arena, will be named for Ryan More, a ket to cover any gaps in the top cap high school hockey player who died in caused by the sliding glass channel, a a car accident in 1997. The addition new clip for holding the glass, and edg- will include six locker rooms, showers, ing on the glass to protect player and referee room and coaches rooms. reduce conversion time. Names in the News Arena Openings Nine-month-old Annelise Foland models her first skat- • Reynold Fauci, director of the ing dress and Riedell skates. • Grande Prairie, AB, CN – A new William G. Mennon Sports Arena in twin-ice arena complex opened in Newark, NJ, has been promoted to Grand Prairie in April. The sledge hock- director of recreation for all facilities Rink Rumblings ey-friendly facility has player boxes on owned by the Morris County Park one ice pad with see-through boards so Commission. NORTHWEST sledge hockey players can watch the play from the box. There’s also a stor- • Minneapolis-based dasher board • Spokane, WA – In its January finan- age area for sledge equipment. manufacturer and arena equipment cial statement, AmericanWest Bancor- supplier Becker Arena Products has poration reported that two ice arenas in introduced the company’s newest staff Spokane are on the bank’s real estate New Construction member, Robb Olexin. Olexin, for- accounts for a total of $4.8 million and merly with Ice America in Dallas, TX, is are being actively marketed for sale. • New Kensington, PA – Ground was responsible for overseeing equipment broken in March for construction of installations for Becker Arena Products, EAST Valley Sports Complex which will Inc. Olexin has over 20 years of experi- include an indoor ice rink, fitness cen- ence as an operator and manager of ice • Randolph, MA – A school committee ter, tennis courts, a pro shop, arcade, rink facilities throughout Canada and member wants the town to lease the birthday party rooms, meeting areas the U.S. In 1989, Olexin started an ice Zapustas Ice Arena to a private opera- and food kiosks. Construction costs rink/multi-sports facility management tor to generate money for Randolph are estimated at $4.6 million. The and consulting company where he schools. The arena, which opened in developer is DR Ice of Monroeville; spent most of his time in facility man- 1971, needs an estimated $500,000 in Rich McDonald is the managing part- agement and operations. repairs and improvements. ner. The complex is scheduled to open September 1. • Ken Partner is the new hockey • Natick, MA – Town officials are director at Galactic Ice in Altoona, PA. debating the future management of • Calgary, AB, CN – Ground was bro- West Suburban Skating Arena. At issue ken in March for construction of the • Shannon Peck, a figure skating is the question of whether town select-

Continued on page 8... 6 the edge may/june 2003 Great defogging begins here, in the minds of our engineers. For example, take our Arid-IceTM Desiccant Dehumidifiers. Benefits include: • Better Ice • Reduced • Better Air Energy Costs • No Dripping • Dependable Operation •No Mold • Retrofitting • Year Round Existing Rinks Operation

Concepts & Designs, engineer Stanley 29235 Lorie Lane • P.O. Box 1013 Harcourt pictured here, may never Wixom, MI 48393-1013 make the Olympics as a figure skater. 248-344-7236 • Fax: 248-344-9401 But rink operators around the world [email protected] would gladly award him a gold medal www.conceptsanddesignsms.com for arena dehumidification. Contact him for assistance with rink and arena dehumidification. ETL-C, ETL and CE Rated ...Continued from page 7 men should run the facility or rent it ation of the skating center is now being Rink, which is open-air. Two township out. The rink reportedly needs a new handled by Chicago-based Firland committeemen have suggested a pubic- natural gas compressor. Management Co., which specializes in private partnership to fund the new building and managing ice arenas. Fir- rink. The plan calls for the township to • Huntington, NY – The town of land crews have cleaned the building, lease the land on which the facility Huntington is looking at design pro- repainted locker, improved the refriger- would be built and to have the ICE posals for a new ice rink at Dix Hills ation and dehumidifying units and cre- plan evaluated by prospective lenders. Park. The new rink will likely share ated a room for birthday parties. If the proposed new rink is deter- common areas with the existing rink. mined to be self-supporting, the ICE Guidelines call for an ice hockey rink • Stamford, CT – The Big Apple committee could then borrow money with penalty boxes, team benches, offi- Smoothie has opened in the Twin Rinks to build the facility with the township cials’ area, four locker rooms, two class- in Stamford. The restaurant’s offerings guaranteeing the debt. ICE has said it rooms, a first aid room, additional range from fresh salmon to flank steak, will take $3 million to $4 million to bathrooms and expansion of the con- fruit juice, fruit smoothies and healthy build the rink. cession area. During summer months, fare. the old rink will be covered with artifi- • Dover, NH – The city of Dover has cial turf and used as an indoor recre- • Ft. Washington, MD – Tucker Road hired Firland Associates to conduct a ation area. Ice Arena is due to reopen for year- comprehensive study on operations of round ice skating sometime this spring. the Dover Ice Arena and to recommend • Pittsburgh, PA – Community ways to improve its financial condition, activists are calling for the reopening of • Providence, RI –Meehan Auditori- currently in a deficit of $900,000. The Nevile Ice Rink. The city-owned facility um at Brown University has under- consultant will review all aspects of the closed in 2001 gone a $4.3 million renovation arena from facility management to pro- including installation of the Crysta- grams to marketing strategies. • Springfield, MA – A city budget cri- plex Series 6A dasherboard system sis brought on in part by the governor with GlassFlex seamless glass shield- • Randolph, MA – The recreation cutting $114 million in state aid to ing system. Upgrades include a reno- board voted to increase the price of ice cities and towns to offset a state budget vation of the lobby area to include rental fees by $20 per hour to pay for deficit has led to the dismissal of four new ticket booths and concessions needed repairs, including replacing the skate guards and to closing Cyr Arena areas, four new locker rooms, a new compressor in the rink’s ice maker and to public skating. hospitality room, and improved team the cooling tower. locker room. The renovated facility • Middletown, NJ – A developer has was rededicated on March 1. • Toms River, NJ – Three suspects have proposed a $150 million project on 137 pleaded guilty to running a scam that acres that would include town houses, • Bristol, PA – The Bristol Borough fleeced 45 investors of more than $1.5 offices, shops, an ice skating rink and Council is weighing proposals from million in a bogus venture called Laser supermarket. four management companies to take World Inc. which illicitly purported to over operation of the financially trou- operate ice skating rinks and other • Flushing, NY – A new ice skating bled Grundy Recreation Center ice “family entertainment” venues. The rink is scheduled to replace the old arena. trio moved investors’ money through World’s Fair Skating Rink. bank accounts and check-cashing ser- • Stamford, CT – Stamford’s mayor has vices for their personal benefit. • Newington, CT – The founders and proposed spending $400,000 on reno- principal owners of the Connecticut vations to Terry Connors Ice Rink. • West Seneca, NY – A four-rink ice International Skating Center, Douglas complex once proposed for Lancaster is Budnick and his former wife Denise • Boston, MA – A plan has been intro- now being discussed for West Seneca. Budnick, have pleaded guilty to charges duced to merge the Metropolitan Dis- related to the embezzlement of more trict Commission, which runs public • Attleboro, MA – City officials want than $3 million from the title insur- rinks, pools and pathways, with the to build condominiums along Union ance company where Denise Budnick Department of Environmental Man- Street as part of a proposal for housing, was assistant treasurer. The money was agement. Senator Brian A. Joyce intro- stores, a parking garage and perhaps an used to complete construction of the duced a bill in March to improve the ice rink and restaurant. ice arena and pay its mortgages. Denise quality of ice rinks and public skating Budnick also pleaded guilty to mail programs by authorizing the state to • North Andover, MA –Voters will fraud and both Budnicks pleaded guilty enter into 10-year leases for the man- decide on May 12 whether to change to filing a false income tax statement. agement of its 21 MDC rinks. the zoning on town-owned land and The ice arena was placed in receivership allow selectmen to sell it to a develop- last December after two mortgage com- • Toms River, NJ – Members of the Ice er to build an ice arena. panies filed suit or notice of intent to Skating for Community Enrichment sue the skating center, seeking foreclo- (ICE) committee are seeking approval • Marshfield, MA – An investment sure to pay mortgages totaling $5 mil- for a new enclosed, year-round ice skat- group, Center Ice Associates LLC, lion. The Budnicks owe more than ing arena in Toms River. A likely site is includes several past and present NHL $115,000 in back property taxes. Oper- next to the existing Winding River Ice stars who want to build an ice arena in

Continued on page 10... 8 the edge may/june 2003 the edge may/june 2003 9 ...Continued from page 10 Marshfield. The proposal calls for a Mile in Mansfield include an ice arena SOUTH 70,000-square-foot facility with two and/or multi-use facility in the Renais- NHL-size ice surfaces, a restaurant, pro sance District. • Wake Forest, NC – Developer Jeff shop and conditioning room. A con- Ammons plans to buy a vacant sultant has been hired to determine the • Green Lake, WI – Plans have been 200,000-square-foot manufacturing feasibility of the goal of raising $3 mil- announced to construct a one-of-a- plant and turn it into an amusement lion for the project. If the project kind hotel/condominium resort with center with gym, an ice skating rink, moves forward, construction could an attached ice rink/event center in restaurants and shops. start this fall with an opening in August Green Lake. The proposed facility will 2004. A special town meeting will be include an indoor ice arena with an • Charlotte, NC – Developers for the required to allow Marshfield to lease Olympic-sized rink and two NHL-sized World’s Sports Center want to build a the land to Center Ice Associates. rinks, a pro shop, exercise center with $200 million entertainment complex track and a mezzanine viewing area in Lancaster County. Plans call for a • Bangor, ME – Renovations and addi- and lounge. Plans call for the resort’s Tony Hawk Skateboard Park, track tions made to Sawyer Ice Arena include hotel/condominium portion to be con- fields, an ice skating rink, and possibly six new locker rooms, 400 new bleach- nected to the ice arena by a walkway a water park. er seats and updates to the concession and include over 100 bedroom units, stand and ticket sales room. along with indoor and outdoor pools, CANADA putting and chipping greens, a hiking • Lewiston, ME – The Central Maine trail and tennis courts. • Edmonton, AB – Due to warmer win- Civic Center has a new roof and a new ters, a councilor has called for the compressor and sound system. • Mendota Heights, MN – Efforts are installation of an artificial ice making in place to form a partnership system at the city hall’s reflecting pool. • Portland, ME – The Cumberland between St. Thomas Academy and the The artificial rink could be open County Civic Center has installed new University of St. Paul to build an ice November 1 to March. aluminum dasherboards and seamless arena to be used by both institutions. tempered glass through the straights The two Catholic institutions are try- • St. John, NB – A fundraising cam- and acrylic for the radiuses. ing to reach an agreement to build a paign was launched in January to raise $4 million, 1,000-seat arena in Men- $1.2 million for a new town rink. The • New Haven, CT – City officials want dota Heights. campaign will supplement the $1 mil- to replace Veterans Memorial Coliseum lion being provided to the project by and other vacant property downtown • Georgetown, MI – Plans have been each of the three levels of government. with a European-style plaza surround- unveiled for a new, two-sheet George- The rink is scheduled to be completed ing blocks of new buildings. The plaza town Community Ice Center. in September. would have a park and a skating rink. • Minneapolis, MN – The University • Niagara Falls, ON – An unexpected MIDWEST of Minnesota has opened the first ice windfall of about $1 million from the arena in the U.S. specifically for provincial government could go • Michigan City, IN – City officials are women’s collegiate hockey. Ridder toward building a second ice surface considering a proposed ice skating rink Arena is attached to Mariucci Arena at the Chippawa-Willoughy Memorial and a roller skating rink. and seats 3,400 spectators. Arena.

• Hoffman Estates, IL – Preliminary WEST • Winnipeg, MB – An extra $1 million plans call for a $6 million to $8 million in funding for the True North Project new training center to be built for the • Cerritos, CA – Danny Kwan, father has the support of the mayor but oppo- Chicago Wolves minor league hockey of Michelle Kwan, is reportedly plan- sition from some city council members. team. Five potential sites have been ning to build an ice arena in Cerritos. Last December the province and city selected. If approved, the center will came to the rescue of the financially have two NHL-size rinks, locker rooms, • Aspen, CO – Friends of the Aspen troubled arena with a promise to cover party rooms, concession stands, a pro Sports and Recreation Center collected a $2-million shortfall in private sector shop and about 9,000-square-feet for more than $300,000 in one day to qual- financing. The province has also agreed Wolves offices, training rooms and ify for a $1 million grant toward the to provide True North with $1 million team locker rooms. construction of the new $8.6 million toward a skywalk system to connect the NHL-sized ice rink in the ARC. arena to downtown Winnipeg. Includ- • Hazel Park, MI – The city of Hazel ing the disputed $1 million, the city, Park is reportedly weighing whether to • Oxnard, CA – Heavy rains in March province and federal government will sell Viking Ice Arena to an unnamed caused the roof of the Oxnard Ice Skat- have committed $40.5 million toward potential buyer. In February, the arena, ing Center to collapse. No injuries were the cost of building the 15,000-seat which opened in 1999 and had strug- reported. arena/entertainment centre. The gled financially, reported a $17,000 $133.5 million facility is expected to profit for the current fiscal year. • Artesia, CA – Paul Kim of Buena Park open late in 2004. proposes to build a 42,950-square-foot • Mansfield, OH – Revitalization pro- ice skating arena and training center on • St. Catharines, ON – There are no posals for downtown and the Miracle Artesia Blvd. plans to close any of the city’s five ice Continued on page 33... 10 the edge may/june 2003 P Q " & '( !"!# $%

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ood customer service is essential for the success of an ice arena; therefore a customer service oriented staff is critical. When hir- ing staff, look for attitudes - people with a sense of humor, people who don’t take themselves too seriously. Hire the attitude and Gtrain the people on what they need to know. You can change people’s skills, but don’t expect to change their inherent attitudes. Traits to Look for in Job Candidates: • Creativity • Strong work ethic • Sense of humor 7 Tips to Keeping Good People • Outgoing personality by Emily Huling • Intelligence • Previous work success • Allow employees to select and attend the training Implement Multiple Step Interview Process: course of their choice. • Initial interview with Director of Human Resources • Schedule brief, regular one-on-one meetings with • Reference check all personnel to hear what’s really going on with • Second interview with Department Head your employees and your customers. Hire with Lofty Goals and Expectations – • Frederick Herzberg, management psychologist, Job candidates need to know that you expect them says, “If you want someone to do a good job, give to be prepared to work: them a good job to do.” • Bring your personality to work. • Always replace an exiting employee with an even • Be aware of facility events and programs. better, brighter, more creative employee. • Report to work neat and clean, in proper unform. • Be flexible and accommodating with employees’ • Report to work on time. life challenges. Children, parents, health matters Customer Service all require time and energy. Happy, balanced • Direct your immediate attention to the customer. employees are productive and lasting. • Be willing to “step out of the box” to find creative • Ask employees for their ideas on how to improve solutions to solving customers’ needs. your organization. Listen and implement. • Commit to keeping current on facility programs. • Always believe your employees will do a better job Everything We Do Is a Reflection on Us: than you will – and they will. • Have fun and interact with customers and co-workers. • Keep your work environment clean and organized at all times. * Reprinted with permission of Emily Huling, Selling • Stay focused on job related tasks and challenges. Strategies Inc., P.O. Box 200, Terrell, NC 28682. • Read, review and know all facility programs, policies and procedures. Phone: 888-309-8802. Fax: 888-309-7355. www.sell- • You are responsible for your scheduled shift. ingstrategies.com • Help each other to be the best. • Use your time effectively and efficiently. • Take pride in yourself and the facility.

Ice arenas are in the business of entertainment. To succeed you need a clean, efficient well maintained, people-friendly facility; trained, customer service oriented staff; and good programs. You can have the facility and the programs, but if your staff is not customer oriented, you loose.

What to Do When a Customer Is Unhappy – No Matter Whose Fault It Is 1. Listen, while the customer vents. tomer for input as to resolution. Ask: “How would • Always give audible feedback (i.e. yes, I see, sure) you like this situation resolved?” or “What can I do • Take notes. to make this right?” • Ask open-ended questions. 5. Do it! • Paraphrase to test for accuracy. • A difficult situation will worsen if promises are made 2. Stay in control of your emotions. and not kept. • Control your emotions even if the anger is directed • Immediate resolution will hasten positive results. at you. 6. Follow up. • Match the customer’s energy, not his/her anger. • A formal or informal follow-up will cement the rela- 3. Own the problem. tionship. • Take the problem and customer seriously. • Follow-up provides an opportunity to build rapport. • Thank the customer for bringing the situation to your attention. * Andy Deyo, Commercial Rinks Section representative on the ISI 4. Resolve the situation. Board of Directors, is President of H/D Sports Management. He • Offer resolution if the problem is simple or familiar. can be reached at 6574 Hermitage Dr. Westerville, Ohio 43082, • If the situation is severe or unfamiliar, ask the cus- phone- 614-891-2949 or send e-mail to [email protected]. 12 the edge may/june 2003 the edge may/june 2003 13 Evaluation

Supports MAXIMUM SOLUTIONS, INC. HAS THE PERFECT SOFTWARE Excellence SOLUTION FOR ANY FACILITY! by Tina Syer Proud scheduler of over 22,000 facilities! any youth sport organization (YSO) leaders get ner- Instantly improve the productivity, vous when the topic of coach evaluation arises.

profitability, and efficiency of your facility! They speak of having trouble getting enough peo- M Print a variety of statistical, financial, ple to volunteer to coach, and the last thing they want to do maintenance and administrative reports is upset these valuable coaches with evaluation. As YSO lead- for customers, teams and facilities – both ers, we need to recognize the substantial value that coach

schedules and calendars! evaluation brings to our organizations. Research by Professor

Allow the community to view facility Shari Young Kuchenbecker at Loyola Marymount University schedules online! in Southern California shows that athletes’ and parents’ sat-

Let customers make ice-time requests or isfaction with their YSO experience has increased signifi- register for programs online! cantly for multiple seasons running when a program of

Export schedule data directly to your coach evaluation has been implemented. Youth Association scheduler! The task of coach evaluation is a big one, and if you do not

already have a head coach or program director in your organization to lead this effort, it may require appointing an Facility Reservations “Evaluation Coordinator.” This person needs to be passion- Program League ate about evaluating the effectiveness of your coaches and Registration Scheduling should be tenacious about getting evaluation forms out to every player and parent (and even more tenacious about getting them back)!

Membership YOUR FACILITY Point Set Coach Expectations Management Of Sale As YSO leaders, we have certain expectations of our coaches. Some of us may have these expectations clearly stated in a writ- Online Online ten form that our coaches review when they sign on, and oth- Requests & Schedule ers may simply communicate these expectations verbally at a Purchases Viewing coaches meeting. Positive Coaching Alliance (PCA) recom- mends having a “Job Description” that all coaches receive What our customers are saying: before the season starts. [See PCA’s “Double-Goal Coach Job Description” at www.positivecoach.org/roadmap/index.html.] “I consider MaxFacility to be the third most important asset in my arena – right behind the refrigeration system and This job description allows coaches to see exactly what is resurfacer.” - Mark Vaughan (Eagan Civic Arena, Eagan, MN) expected of them and makes it clear what points the evalu-

“The greatest benefit I have received from using MaxSolutions ation will cover. Let your coaches know that players and par- software has been peace of mind and more energy. It allows ents will be surveyed later in the season as to how well each me to complete other tasks I never seemed to be able to get to coach met the expectations listed in the job description. before. I remember all too well how it was before I started Sharing the evaluation forms you plan to hand out to play- using MaxFacility and I certainly would never want to return ers and parents with your coaches at the start of the season will serve to lessen any anxiety coaches may be feeling about to those days.” - Lee Roy (Travis Roy Arena, Yarmouth, ME) this process. For more information, please contact us at: Maximum Solutions, Inc. Survey Players and Parents 7703 Normandale Rd., Suite 100, Edina, MN 55435 800-976-6646 The coach evaluation forms for the players and parents should www.maxsolutions.com be tightly aligned with the coach’s job description. Each sur-

vey should be no more than one page (single-sided), and it

should take no more than five minutes to complete. Most people see these evaluation forms simply as a means to get feedback about the coaches, but they also play a powerful role in 14 the edge may/june 2003 communicating to players and parents what your organization values in its coaches. [See PCA’s “Coach Evaluation Forms” at www.positivecoach.org/roadmap/index.html.]

Some organizations choose to distribute these evaluation forms a few weeks before the end of the season, while others do the evaluation mid-season. Decide what will be most helpful to your organization and your coaches. Do you have the resources to do this effectively during the season, so your coaches can get feedback they can utilize immediately, or is it better to wait until the end of the season?

Tabulate Responses and Give Feedback

Work with your Evaluation Coordinator to tabulate and summarize the feedback for each coach. This part of the evaluation process is always rewarding because the vast majority of the feedback you will receive from the surveys will be positive. Based on the results, send each coach a letter identify- ing how his or her players and parents rated him or her against the expectations. Again, for the vast majority of coaches, this letter will be very positive and may even include specific quotes from the players and parents (which will encourage this coach to come back next season). Grant- ed, sending each of your coaches a personalized letter is a huge investment of time and energy, but you will see the return on this investment with increased retention of coaches. Increased retention of your best coaches is one of the most effective ways to strengthen the quality of your program, and it means less time spent recruiting and educating new coaches.

In a few cases, you may find certain coaches whose evaluations cause concern. The results of the evaluations for these coaches prove to be helpful because they give you something concrete to discuss with the coach. Players and parents will likely have ranked this coach high in some areas and low in others, so you can talk the coach through the results by rein- forcing what he or she did well and by discussing what he or she can do to improve in the other areas. Although these conversations can be tough, they greatly impact the quality of experience you are offering athletes in your program. Also, in extreme cases, evaluation results can support the tough decision of having to let a coach go.

Evaluating Your Organization

This same process can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of your overall league, program or organization. First, using your organization’s mission statement as a guide, decide what your organization’s major goals are. Build your survey based on these goals, and distribute it to players, parents, coaches, and officials. Tabulate your results, and write a report summarizing the findings and presenting the steps you will take in response to any areas of weakness.

Although implementing an evaluation program can seem like a daunting task, it will give you insight into your program that you cannot find any other way, and it will ensure that your organization is giving the athletes the best experience possible.

* Tina Syer is the Director of Partner Programs for Positive Coach- ing Alliance (www.positivecoach.org), an ISI partner. 15 Reflections on Skating by Dianne Powell

ave you ever tried skating on ice cubes? Wanda Mae Guntert has. She Hwas a precocious five-year-old whose brother came home from a trip to an ice rink and shared the excitement of his really neat experience. “So I took ice cubes from the freezer and put them on the floor and tried to skate on them. My parents decided it was probably safer if they took me ice skating,” explains Wanda. That was the beginning of a long, successful career for the woman who has been teaching skating for over 40 years and is now the Skating Director at the Salva- tion Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Commu- nity Center in San Diego, CA.

As Skating Director of a new facility, Wanda is excited about having over 100 students in her Pre-Alpha program. “The thing that is so exciting at the Kroc Center is there are so many new people,” said Wanda.

Because her coaches didn’t come to the Kroc Center with a base of students Wanda needed a way to introduce private lessons. To spur private lessons, Wanda invited guest coaches Wanda Mae Guntert and Don Bartelson Photo by Dianne Powell to come in and teach on public sessions. This plants the idea of taking private lessons. “They’ve been very forthright about not taking students friends can skate for the $2.50 skate rental cost. The skater from the skating school,” said Wanda. “They recommend the who brings the most friends gets a free semester of classes. coaches in the skating school.” “Out of that I wind up with 50, 60, maybe 70 people coming in. Quite a few come back as a result of the “Bring a Friend” Wanda also holds in-house ISI competitions. Skaters who program,” says Wanda. register for a competition get a free 15-minute private lesson. “They do compulsories so there’s no music involved,” Over the term of her lengthy career, Wanda has observed explained Wanda. “Most of the time people go back and take changes. Earlier in her career coaches often had skaters for 10 two, three or four lessons.” to 12 years. “I don’t see that as much any more, which is sad because it takes a couple of years to learn your student’s per- Twenty-three coaches at the Kroc Center took part in the ini- sonality, what makes them tick, what it takes to make them tial promotion of private lessons and Wanda expects more successful. That’s hard to do if you kind of fly in on a coach involvement with future efforts. The coaches hand out fliers and fly out,” says Wanda. “You really do need time to learn with information about the competition and the availabili- the positive things that you need to instill to make them suc- ty of private lessons. “Most coaches also attach their busi- cessful and to be able to skate under pressure. You’ve got to ness card to the flyer, and skaters and their parents can pick have key words that are there to make it enjoyable for them.” the coach they want. Most of the time they take private lessons from their class instructor, but sometimes they don’t. Wanda advises new coaches to “enjoy your students. Make it They’re not really anybody’s students yet, and that’s the a positive experience. The relationship should be positive thing that is nice,” said Wanda. From her initial promotion and entering competitions should be positive.” of private lessons at the Kroc Center, most of the skaters are still skating and taking private lessons. “Positive” is a key word in Wanda’s philosophy. She describes herself as “very positive, upbeat. I enjoy life. That’s what it’s As a means to bring new skaters into the programs at the all about,” she says. “enjoy every experience you come in Kroc Center, Wanda launched a “Bring a Friend” initiative. contact with.” She prints fliers with the dates for “Bring a Friend,” which takes place during the third week of a new skating school. Don Bartelson, manager of Ontario Ice Skating Center in Skaters are invited to bring as many friends as they want. The Ontario, CA, has known Wanda for most of her coaching 16 the edge may/june 2003 career. He describes Wanda as vivacious and charming. “I She says that a successful arena needs skaters and a “team think one of the most unique qualities Wanda has is the abil- that’s willing to work to make the rink successful and not ity to reflect back over the last four decades and understand divide it with the hockey program over here and the figure the evolution of skating. Her number one strength, by far, is skating program here. Make skating enjoyable,” she urges. dedication,” says Don. “She’s the type of person who does “Make it a career.” not take a day off. She’ll be there when she doesn’t have to be, and that’s hard to find today.” Wanda teaches both ISI and USFSA skaters. Of the ISI program, she says, “I think it’s probably one of the best starter Wanda describes the ideal coach as someone who is firm, has programs for young children. In Southern California we tend direction and is positive. “I think sometimes we get a little to keep them in the ISI program until they are Freestyle 5 or too picky and with today’s generation you have to give them 6 and then move them into the USFSA program. It’s a real some strokes but be very firm and say, ‘These are the things nice transition. We can take skaters who are not as strong, that are necessary to be successful, if that is what you want.’” Intermediates or Novices, and put them in ISI competitions and they enjoy it because they have more success than when Don says that Wanda brings “discipline, goals and direction, they skate against the really strong Juvenile Lady with dou- realistic goals and directions that can be accomplished” to ble axels. This is a nice transition.” her students and coaches. “We have been friends since 1950,” says Don. “We spin things off each other as to differ- One of Wanda’s former students graduated from college and ent ways to do the job. We’re always working on new applied for a job as a coroner in Los Angeles. There were 40 avenues to improve what we do, how to present it in a bet- applicants for the job. She put on her application “skated for ter package and do a better job.” 10 years” and she got the job. “She felt she got the job because she spent 10 years in the sport,” says Wanda. “She “She’s believable,” says Don. “The issue of credibility in our stuck with the ups and downs of the sport for 10 years and industry should not be taken lightly, and when we have peo- that showed her ability to stick with something that is not ple who are truly dedicated individuals and who really are always easy.” credible, we should respect them and really listen to be able to learn the most we can.” Wanda Mae Guntert has clearly made an impact on the world of recreational ice skating and her students. “I don’t Over the course of her teaching career, Wanda has had think people realize the education you get from being in a skaters of all levels and she takes pride in the fact that many sport for a long time,” she says as she shares her education of her skaters have gone on to become outstanding coaches. with others.

the edge may/june 2003 17 CALENDAR ISI ENDORSED COMPETITIONS, SHOWS/EXHIBITIONS (Due to printing deadlines, events endorsed by ISI after April 8, 2003 are not listed.)

7 CT International Skating 2-4 Pettit National Ice Center May 2003 Competition Center Milwaukee WI 2-4 Clackamas Town Center Newington CT Milwaukee on Ice Portland OR 2nd Annual Connecticut ISI 2-4 Southwest Ice Arena Portland Classic Open Competition Crestwood IL 2-4 Iceland of Hampton Roads 10 Lane County Ice Center “American Bandstand” Virginia Beach VA Eugene OR 2-4 Wayne Community Center 10th Annual Azalea Open Meltdown Wayne MI ISI Team Invitational 13-15 Aerodrome-Willowbrook Wayne’s 28th Annual Silver 2-3 Arkansas Figure Skating Houston TX Picks Presents…”American Association 8th Annual ISI Summer 28-8/2Northbrook Park Idols” Springdale AR Challenge of Champions Sports Center, Twin 2-3 Taylor Sportsplex Luau on Ice 13 Sunrise Ice Skating Center Rinks Ice Pavillion, Taylor MI 2-4 Dr Pepper StarCenter Sunrise FL Glenview Ice Center Extra! Extra! Duncanville TX 16th Annual ISI Summer Chicago IL 2-3 Oxnard Ice Skating Center 2003 ISI District 11 Challenge 2003 ISI World Oxnard CA Championships 14-15 San Diego Ice Arena Recreational Team Spring Ice-travaganza 3-4 Glacial Garden Skating San Diego CA Championships 2-4 St Peters Rec Plex Arena San Diego Ice Arena ISI Open St Peters MO Lakewood CA Championships Mystical, Magical Moments August 2003 Competition 7th Annual ISI Open 14-15 International Skating on Ice 3 Wonderland of Ice 30-9/1 Kendall Ice Arena Center of CT Miami FL 2 Ice Oasis Bridgeport CT Simsbury CT Redwood City CA Wonderland Basic Skills 3rd Annual ISI Labor Day 5th Annual Summer Jam ISI Challenge “Music Through Time” 4 Hommocks Park Ice Rink Competition 2-3 Schwan’s Super Rink Larchmont NY 30 Center Ice of DuPage 14 Las Vegas Sports Park Glen Ellyn IL Blaine MN Hommocks Park Ice Rink Las Vegas NV Magic, Music & Mickey Competition 3rd Annual “Chill Out” ISI 2nd Annual “Summer Splash” Team Competition 3 Golden Blades FSC 16-18 Ice Town ISI Open Competition Mansfield MA Riverside CA 21-22 McFetridge Sports Center “Gotta Dance, Gotta Skate” Springfest - 2nd Annual ISI Chicago IL September 2003 Competition 3 New Hope Ice Arena Open School’s Out Competition New Hope MN 16-18 The Pavilion 21-22 SkateQuest of Prince William “Premiere Night” Taylor SC Dale City VA 3 Berkeley Iceland 11th Annual “Break The Blades of Summer 2003 Berkeley CA Ice” ISI Competition 21-22 Ice Zone “Blast From The Past” 16-17 Power Play Rinks @ Warwick Boardman OH 3 Seven Bridges Ice Arena Warminster PA 5th Annual District 7 Ice Zone Woodridge IL Power Play Rinks 2nd Mid American Championships “Skating Through The Decades” Annual ISI Team 26-29 Charles Moore Arena 3-4 Charles Moore Arena Competition Orleans MA Orleans MA 17-18 Sharper Edge Skating School Distict 1 Championships The American Dream on Ice Acton MA 27-29 Sun Blades Ice Arena 3-4 Portland Ice Arena 7th Annual “Skater’s Cup” Clearwater FL Portland OR 18 Planet Ice Sun Blades 17th Annual ISI Hats Off To Skating Johnstown PA Championships 4 Hagerstown Ice & Sports Spring Challenge 28-29 YBIS&BC Hagerstown, MD 24 Casper Ice Arena San Francisco CA 12-14 Charles Moore Arena Spring Ice Show Featuring Casper WY Golden Gate Skate 2003 Orleans MA Sensation Brian Orser Late Skate 2003 ISI Adult 8-10 Minnetonka Ice Arena 31-1 Richmond Ice Zone Championships Minnetonka MN Richmond VA July 2003 Competition 29th Annual Silver Skates Ice 2003 Spring Splash 4-6 Ice Center @ San Mateo Revue 31-1 TBSA - Parkside San Mateo CA October 2003 Competition 8-10 Garden City Civic Arena Pinellas Park FL West Coast Championships 3-5 Arkansas Figure Skating Garden City MI TBSA Parkside Annual Team 4-6 Chaparral Ice Association Jukebox Saturday Night Competition Austin TX Springdale AR 9-11 Northbrook Sports Center The Texas Hill Country Ozark Invitational Northbrook IL June 2003 Competition Independence Open 25-26 Winterland Skating School Northbrook on Ice 1 Hagerstown Ice & Sports 11-12 HJ McDonald Memorial Rockland MA 9-11 Kenosha County Ice Arena Complex Center 17th Annual Halloween Classic Kenosha WI Hagerstown, MD Eagle River AK 2003 Summer “Mardi Gras” Annual Open ISI Competition Competition 9-10 St Croix Valley Rec Center 6-8 Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers March 2004 Competition 11-12 Schwan’s Super Rink Stillwater MN New York NY 26-28 Ice Chalet Blaine MN Spring 2003 Ice Show-Broadway 17th Annual Sky Rink Knoxville TN Summer Sizzle 9-10 Owens Center Team Competition 35th Annual Mississippi 12-13 Glacial Garden Skating Arena Peoria IL 6-8 Pineville Ice House Valley District Competition Anaheim CA The Ice Show of Shows Pineville NC 9th Annual ISI Open 9-10 Plymouth Ice Center “Beat The Heat” 12 Cabin John Ice Rink Plymouth MN 6-8 Arkansas Skatium May 2003 Shows/Exhibitions Rockville MD That’s The Ticket Little Rock AR 1-3 John Lindell Ice Arena 2nd Annual Summer Skate 9 Sherwood Ice Arena Skatium Open 2003 Royal Oak MI “Day By Day” Sherwood OR 18 the edge may/june 2003 “Dreams on Ice” Highland Park 31 Kingsgate Arena 10 Veterans Memorial Skating Highland Park IL Kirkland WA December 2003 Shows/Exhibitions Rink The Centennial Music Awards All That Jazz 2-4 Ice Chalet West Hartford CT 2003 Knoxville TN WHFSC Spring Skating Show 16-18 Centennial Ice Rinks The Nutcracker on Ice XVI 10 US Ice Sports Complex Wilmette IL June 2003 Shows/Exhibitions 6-7 Park District of Franklin Park Chesterfield MO “SK8-Way to Broadway” 6-7 Arctic Ice Arena Franklin Park IL A Night at the Ice Grammys 16-18 Niles Park District Iceland Orland Park IL Holiday Recital 10 AMF Ice Chateau Niles IL TV Time 31 Easy Street Ice Arena Overland Park KS Skate Safari 6-8 Pineville Ice House Simi Valley CA Skating Through The Decades- 16-18 Park District of Franklin Park Pineville NC Winter Ice Show Spring Show Franklin Park IL “Beat The Heat” Exhibition 10 Norwich Municipal Ice Rink Spring Ice Show 7 Barrington Ice Arena June 2004 Shows/Exhibitions Norwich CT 16-17 Aerodrome-Willowbrook Lake Barrington IL 14-16 Park District of Franklin Park The Great Skate to Ice Cut Houston TX Kaliedescope 2003 Franklin Park IL Cancer “Platforms & Polyester, Disco 7 Kendall Ice Arena Spring Ice Show 2004 10 Triangle Sports Plex on Ice” Miami FL Hillsborough NC 16-18 Homewood Flossmoor Ice “50 Years of Rock and Roll” Spring Exhibition Arena 8 Cumberland YMCA 10 The RRRink Homewood IL Cumberland MD Medford OR Western Celebration YMCA Anniversary Ice Show 2003 Spring Showcase 16-18 Rocket Ice Arena 13-14 Center Ice of DuPage 13 Skatium Bolingbrook IL Glen Ellyn IL Skokie IL “Pure Imagination” “Are We There Yet?” Skatium Presents Superstaars 16-18 Plymouth Cultural Center 14-15 The Edge Ice Arena On Ice Plymouth MI Bensenville IL 14-18 Glenview Ice Center “Celebration of Music” 5th Annual Ice Show Glenview IL 16-17 Redford Ice Arena 20-21 Carol Stream Ice Rink Reflections on Ice - A Tribute Redford MI Carol Stream IL to 30 Years Redford Spins Motown Under The Big Top 15-16 Wayne C Kennedy Recreation 17-18 Grand Oaks Ice Arena 21-22 Nashoba Valley Acton MA Complex Howell MI For additional St Louis MO 27th Annual While we were sleeping… Ice Magic 2003 - “Skate Us to Ice Revue 17-18 Fox Valley Ice Arena Vegas” calendar information, 15-18 Skatium Geneva IL Skokie IL Broadway check ISI’s fabulous September 2003 Shows/Exhibitions Pure Imagination 24 Skate World 13 Park District of Franklin Park NEW website at 16-18 Centennial Ice Arena - Jacksonville FL Franklin Park IL Exhibitions www.skateisi.org Open House

the edge may/june 2003 19

30 Tips to Improve Your Trade Show Experience by Susan A. Friedmann According to a CEIR (Center for Exhibition Industry Research) At the Show: study, 39% of attendees spend less than eight hours visiting a trade show. Planning and preparation are essential to maximizing time 16. Revise your plan at the show. The show directory and sched- on the trade show floor. The following 30 points will help simplify ule often changes several times before a show. the process next time you find yourself attending a trade show: 17. Collect information that is of interest to you or that might Before the Show: interest others in your company. Request that literature and samples be mailed instead of having to carry them 1. Know what you want to achieve by visiting the show and if with you. the company is sending you understand what your boss wants you to achieve by attending the show. 18. Obtain a map of the city and know how to get to the convention center. 2. Develop a plan of which exhibitors you want to visit and then organize your list into two parts - “must see” and “want to see” 19. Tell exhibitors you are on a tight time schedule to avoid casu- companies. al chatter and get straight to business.

3. Decide how much time you want to spend at the show and 20. Look for networking opportunities. Network with industry then at each booth. Allow extra time for browsing, distrac- leaders. Get invited to exhibitors’ hospitality suites/ recep- tions and waiting in lines. tions. At workshops introduce yourself to people around you - hand out/collect business cards. Hook up with new contacts at 4. Find out who else from your company is going to the show mealtimes for added information and develop a plan to maximize your visit, especially at large shows. 21. Skip overly crowded booths and plan to come at end of day when traffic is slower. 5. Know what information you need to have from each exhibitor. Research vendors to find out how they differ and 22. Check coats and bags so you don’t have to drag them around what is most important to you. Then plan intelligent ques- with you. tions to ask them. 23. Carry a pad and pen to jot down important notes, or have a 6. Design a lead gathering form to research for specific prod- small tape recorder for note taking. ucts/services to make accurate comparisons. 24. Take a break after a few hours to refresh and get some fresh 7. Make appointments with exhibitors you really want to meet with. air. Air in convention halls is dry, stale and draining. Drink water instead of pop/beer regularly to avoid dehydration. 8. Get a map of where exhibitors are located and prioritize your route. 25. Write a trip report as you go along and summarize your notes every evening. 9. Take plenty of business cards to avoid filling out forms. 26 Be prepared to push for answers to questions exhibitors are not 10. Pack comfortable shoes and clothing to wear on the show prepared to answer. floor. Walking shows is extremely tiring. Try insoles for extra comfort. Remember to leave room for things to bring back. 27. Avoid conversations with vendors you have no interest in.

11. Take a light and comfortable “carry-all” for accumulated mate- 28. Leave the show about 30 minutes before closing to avoid lines rials. Plastic bags are often uncomfortable as they cut into your for busses and cabs. hands. After the Show: 12. Make travel and hotel reservations early to maximize dis- counted rates. 29. Plan how you are going to implement information gathered.

Stay at a hotel closest to the convention site to save on travel 30. Be prepared to follow-up after the show for literature and sam- and to give you a place to rest, sort through information gath- ples requests. ered, and refocus your energy.

14. Plan the seminars/workshops you want to attend. Split ses- Written by Susan A. Friedmann, CSP, The Tradeshow Coach, Lake sions with your colleagues to maximize data gathering. Placid, NY, working with exhibitors and show organizers to improve their tradeshow success through coaching, consulting and training. For a free 15. Pre-register for the event and arrive 30 minutes before opening copy of ExhibitSmart Tips of the Week, mail to:susan@thetradeshow- to avoid standing in lines. coach.com. Website: www.thetradeshowcoach.com the edge may/june 2003 21 Photos provided by Town of Breckenridge

SnowSnow andand IceIce BeckonBeckon inin BreckenridgeBreckenridge

igh up in the mountains of Colorado, at an eleva- “Nobody expected the incredible outpouring of interest and tion of 9,603 feet, sits the ski resort community of attendance of local adult hockey and figure skaters to be gen- HBreckenridge. The town was formed in 1859 as a erated by the ice rink,” says Town Manager, Tim Gagen. boisterous mining camp that prospered during the gold rush Within two years, the Town of Breckenridge was exploring era. That boom still echoes today, proving to be as histori- the possibility of enclosing the existing seasonal rink or cally rich as any other chapter in the annals of Breckenridge. adding another year-round ice-skating facility. The decision It was the discovery of “white gold,” snow skiing, that put was made to build an indoor rink. In July of 2000, the the town on international maps. indoor rink opened. In 2001, the SCW was selected as an Ath- letic Business Facility of Merit Award winner, an award given Complementing the winter snow skiing experience, Brecken- to facilities that set the design and functionality standard for ridge offers a full array of year-round activities and events. athletic, recreational and wellness projects. Attractions include a 27-hole municipal golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus, a summer performance center that’s home to SCW was commended by Athletic Business’ judges for its two orchestras, a Recreation Center with gymnasium, indoor sophisticated use of pre-engineered steel, medal and wood and outdoor tennis courts, aquatic center, weight and cardio- to tie the building to Breckenridge’s mining history. Win- vascular equipment, rock wall, racquetball courts, outdoor dows allow natural light into the rink, while strips of galva- skateboard park, softball and soccer fields and a kayak park. nized metal on the ceiling reflect light downward and heavy timbers add distinctive character to the facility. A concrete Early in the 1960s skiing drew people to this area, and today and galvanized metal fireplace tucked against a steel stair- the Breckenridge Ski Resort has four interconnected moun- case adds warmth to the lobby where guests can enjoy a view tains, more than 2,000 skiable acres and a dedication to pro- of both the indoor and outdoor rinks. viding a world-class experience for visitors. That experience also includes two Nordic Cross-Country Ski Centers, hun- One judge described the design of SCW as “very Colorado.” dreds of miles of snow-shoeing trails, and a year-round ice skating facility, the Stephen C. West Ice Arena. Currently Breckenridge boasts a year-round, permanent population of 2,728 with a total of over 25,000 active citizens in Built and operated by the Town of Breckenridge, the Stephen the surrounding Summit County. Most impressive for the rel- C. West (SCW) Ice Arena opened in December 1996 with an atively small population is the popularity of the adult recre- outdoor ice skating rink. The NHL sized ice skating surface ational hockey program, which has 38 teams with 500 play- includes a warming house and shades to ward off the inten- ers in five divisions. The hockey program is under the direc- sity of the high altitude sun. The facility was built to provide tion of SCW Assistant Manager, Kevin Zygulski. opportunities for local youths to play hockey and figure skate and to provide another amenity for the tourism industry. “A large factor in the success of the adult program, compared 22 the edge may/june 2003 to our small community size, has to do with the high level of sports and fitness exhibited by our residents,” says Zygyul- ski. “That, coupled with the amount of support and sponsorship the leagues receive from local businesses, has greatly expanded the opportunities for adults in our community to play hockey.”

According to adult hockey league sponsor and player, Eric Mamula, owner of Downstairs at Eric’s restaurant, “In our community there are a lot of people who have alpine and nordic skied or mountain biked for so long, it’s nice to have the opportunity to do something different. Most sports in the mountains are individual sports, and hockey has brought together many people in our community who moved here from all over the country. It is really gratifying to see the pro- gression of the new players, and the opportunity for people to learn a new sport is the beauty of the program.”

The program continues to grow, with three co-ed divisions that include up to 75 female players. Diane McBride, who started skating and playing hockey eight months ago at age 29, is typ- ical of the players. “It is a credit to the ice arena staff and instructors that through offering good programs and instruc- Mini-Mite Hockey Team with coaches (L to R) Joe Larkin, Bryan Smith tion, people have not only been able to pick up the sport, they and Dan Harvey have progressed very quickly, including myself. I’m having a concessions stand, exercise bikes, four locker rooms with show- blast and love the social aspects of recreational hockey.” ers, a family changing room, and a full service Pro Shop.

In addition to the adult hockey programs, the SCW is a full ser- “We pride ourselves on offering high-end merchandise at com- vice ice arena with programs for youth hockey, figure skating, petitive prices, outstanding skate sharpening and repair, all in a learn to skate classes, stick and puck sessions, broomball, and friendly, customer service based environment,” says Kevin public skating. Other amenities include two meeting rooms, a Lukanski, who oversees the Pro Shop and Front Desk operations. Continued on page 24...

the edge may/june 2003 23 ...Continued from page 23 Each summer the SCW Ice Arena offers a summer skating school that draws skaters from across the country.The summer school program is under the direction of Larisa Gendernalik, and skaters can choose to skate for the entire summer or a portion thereof. For more information on summer figure skating, contact Lar- isa Gendernalik at 970-547-3148 or send e-mail to [email protected].

Breckenridge also offers a winter sports program for youth. For six weeks each winter, ele- mentary school children have the option to participate for a half-day in either alpine skiing, nordic skiing or ice skating. Educators in the area feel it’s important to introduce children to the winter sports opportunities that are available in their backyard. Approximately 185 children from five schools participated this year in the skating program, which includes both instruction and open skating time.

Part of the ice arena’s success and appeal has Skaters enjoy the great Colorado outdoors on the seasonal rink at SCW. to do with some of the special events that occur throughout the year. For the past two years, the NHL’s Dallas Stars hockey team has conducted it is a unique opportunity to watch some of the world’s their pre-season training camp at the ice arena. The Dallas best hockey players train and practice. Stars have capitalized on the high-altitude training condi- tions and the appeal of a small community to not only In October of 2000, the SCW Ice Arena also hosted some of evaluate and train their players but to also build team the world’s top figure skaters as they prepared to go on tour. unity. For the residents and local skaters in Breckenridge, 2002 Olympic champion Alexei Yagudin, along with Victor Kraatz and Shae-Lynn Bourne, Barbara Fusai-Poli and Maur- izio Margaglio, Galit Chait and Serfei Sakhnovsky, and Nakako Tsuzuki and Rinat Farkhoutdinov, all trained for a week at the ice arena.

The SCW Ice Arena also hosts events for many of the local not-for-profit organizations throughout Summit County. Most notable is The Summit Foundation’s Hockey Classic, which pits local ski resort industry giants, Vail Resorts and Intrawest, against each other in a celebrity filled, fun match- up for local bragging rights. While the winner receives a champion’s cup, the loser’s award is a little more unique – a golden toilet seat.

To support the Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center, the ice arena hosts a “Hockey Ultrathon” each year, consisting of over 100 hours of continuous hockey play around-the-clock for four and a half days. The event attempted to break into the Guiness Book of World Records for the longest amateur hockey game but was outdone by another event in New Mex- ico three weeks later.

The SCW Ice Arena and the Breckenridge community have much to offer. A breathtakingly beautiful location, good arena programming and friendly staff, combined with opportunities to enjoy other winter and summer sports activities and an array of entertainment options, make the Stephen C. West Ice Arena in Breckenridge, CO an extraordinary experience.

“The quality of SCW’s staff, the support of the community and this awesome environment add to the charm, character and appeal of Stephen C. West Ice Arena,” said Arena Manager Instructor Sandy Baker with students at SCW. Jenise Jensen. “We invite everyone to come and check us out.” 24 the edge may/june 2003

TributeTribute toto FritzFritz DietlDietl (1911-2003) by Dianne Powell

any people walk in and out of our lives but few Mleave footprints on our hearts. Fritz Dietl left footprints on the heart of the ice skating industry. Fritz died on March 29, 2003.

If you didn’t know Fritz Dietl, you missed the opportunity to associate with and learn from a legend. He was a giant, a pioneer, an icon who impacted the ice skating industry for most of his 91 adventure-filled years. Fritz was born in Vienna, Aus- tria. He began ice skating at age 11 on the frozen Danube River and by Continued on page 28...

Icon, Pioneer, Legend, Star

...Continued from page 26 age 18 he was a professional skater touring Europe. He earned and for all of the generations he taught, all the young skaters a degree in engineering, at the insistence of his father, but who have gone on to teach others. He had a smile that lit up a skating was his passion. room. He was always gracious, a very good listener, always very sincere. He had the best interests of the Institute and his skaters Ever the athlete, as a youngster Fritz took up tennis to earn at heart. A lot of knowledge has gone with him. The good news money to support his skating. Within five years he was the is, we’re still here (the Institute he helped found) and we’re tennis champion of Austria. That was Fritz’s style – athletic, strong and we’re carrying on because of what he helped to confident, determined throughout his life. He accomplished start.” more than most dream. “As an original member of the Institute, he contributed As a young man, he taught skating in Austria, Switzerland much to ISI’s programs. He helped fund and start the Edu- and England before moving to Johannesburg, South Africa. cation Foundation and he offered his help to the Institute He starred in his own European ice show before moving to when we were struggling financially,” said former ISI Presi- the United States in 1939 to perform in the Sonja Henie Ice dent Murray Sandler. “He will be remembered as someone Reviews. He performed before packed crowds for six years as who devoted his life to skating and skaters. He deserves all Sonja’s skating partner. the accolades that have been showered on him and certainly there have been many.” Fritz’s signature maneuver on ice was skating on stilts. Uti- lizing his engineering talents and innovative nature, he pro- In 1977, Fritz was elected to the ISI Skating Hall of Fame in duced 24-inch-high hinged stilts for skating. “I was the first recognition of his service and contributions to the ice arena to produce a hinge on the side of the stilts which worked like industry as an international performer, manager, professional an ankle,” explained Fritz in an interview in 1998. “I could instructor and ice rink owner. In 1996, he was given the ISI move on stilts like a normal skater; that’s how I could jump.” Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also the first Honorary Lifetime Member of the ISI Board of Directors. At the end of his tour with the Sonja Henie show, Fritz taught skating in New York before converting a garage in Westwood, Fritz was also a charter member and former treasurer of the New Jersey into a single sheet ice arena with himself as Professional Skaters Association. He received a Lifetime owner, manager and skating director. The Fritz Dietl Ice Rink Achievement Award from the PSA in 1972 and held PSA mas- continues to operate today. ter ratings in seven disciplines.

As a smart businessman in a new endeavor, Fritz had the insight “Fritz was an incredible man,” said PSA Executive Director Car- to recognize the need for a united effort to encourage ice skating ole Schulman. “He served our organization well for his entire as recreation and a participant sport and thus became one of the lifetime. We mourn his loss but treasure his memory and the charter members of the Ice Skating Institute. numerous contributions he made to our organization.”

“Fritz was a pioneer of the commercial ice skating industry as Marc Nelson describes himself as a long, long, long time col- we know it today in America,” said Peter Martell, ISI Execu- league of Fritz Dietl. “I met Fritz in 1942 or ’43 when I was com- tive Director. “He was a legend in the industry who left an peting and Fritz was starring at the Center Theater in New impact on so many aspects of this business. He literally ded- York,” says Marc. “Many performers proclaimed Fritz the best icated his whole life to this industry.” skater in the show. He was a giant. He was absolutely unique. He taught Arthur Godfrey to skate and produced Arthur God- ISI President Jim Lange said of Fritz, “I think his life speaks vol- frey’s television show. He was a truly monumental figure in the umes in what he has done for the industry ice skating world.” Continued on page 46...

Through the years, Fritz’s smile lit up our world. 28 the edge may/june 2003

SEND ENTRY AND FEE TO: Team Entry Form Event information available ISI All information for team events (on this 17120 N. Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 140 at www.skateisi.org. form) will be mailed to the rink indicated Dallas, TX 75248 below. (Including Family Spotlight.) Phone: 972-735-8800 • FAX 972-735-8815

Event Location Event Dates Test Deadline Entry Deadline Adult Championships Orleans, MA Sept. 12-14, 2003 Aug. 1, 2003 Aug. 1, 2003 Please Print

Name of Group Instructor/Coach

Rink Representing Coach’s Home Telephone

Address Rink Telephone

City, State, Zip ISI Registration # We wish to enter: (IMPORTANT Use one team entry form per team, per event. Please send team photo with entry.) Synchronized Formation Compulsories Production Team Synchronized Formation Team Pattern Team Synchronized Skating Compulsories Kaleidoskate Team Synchronized Skating Team Team Compulsories: ______Level* Synchronized Dance Freestyle Synchro:______Level* Family Spotlight *(indicate 1-10)

Name Age as of ISI # Name Age as of ISI # July 1, 2003 July 1, 2003 1 17 2 18 3 19 4 20 5 21 6 22 7 23 8 24 9 Crossover Skaters Team # 10 1 11 2 12 3 13 4 14 5 15 6 16 7

ENTRY DEADLINE: There will be no refunds.Memberships must be current Entry Fees: through event. Expired Membership renewals must accompany this entry application. All Team Entries $20.00 per member Upon entering this competition, we hereby agree that any photographs or video tapes Production Team pays for first 32 skaters only - $640 maximum. taken of our team by ISI or authorized party, may be used exclusively for any purpose ISIA Education Foundation Donation enclosed $5.00 by the ISI or any other use authorized by ISI. Total Enclosed: $ ______Make check payable to ISI I declare that the information above is true and that all skaters have current individual membership with ISI, and I have notified all team members that they skate at their own OFFICE USE ONLY risk, and hereby release ISI, the host facility(ies), and their personnel from all liability. Date Rec’d. ______Check # ______Amount ______Coach’s Signature Date

❏ American Express ❏ Visa ❏ MasterCard ❏ Discover ______Card # Exp. Date Cardholder (please print) ______Authorized Signature Telephone Number (must be included)

Event information available at ISI Individual Entry Form 17120 N. Dallas Pkwy., Ste. 140 www.skateisi.org. Dallas, TX 75248 Phone: 972-735-8800 • FAX 972-735-8815 Event Location Event Dates Test Deadline *Entry Deadline Adult Championships Orleans, MA Sept. 12-14 Aug. 1, 2003 Aug. 1, 2003 MALE FEMALE

Last Name First Name ISI Member # Exp. Date*

Address Birthdate Age on 1st day of event

City State/Province Phone No. USFSA Test Level

Postal Code Country Home Rink Name INDIVIDUAL EVENTS NEW Pre-Alpha – Delta Freestyle (1-10) Solo Dance (1-10) Jump & Spin Teams Solo Solo INDICATE LEVEL Low (Pre-Alpha-Delta) Stroking Footwork (1-10) Med (Freestyle 1-3) Spotlight (choose 1) Solo Compulsories Int (Freestyle 4-5) Figures (1-10) Character Artistic High (Freestyle 6-10) Dramatic Spotlight (choose 1) Figures Light Entertainment Character Creative Figures Partner Name INDICATE LEVEL Dramatic Free Figures Partner ISI # Pre-Alpha – Delta Light Entertainment Any changes to this original INDICATE LEVEL INDICATE LEVEL entry form will result in a (1-10) Change Fee of $25.00 Special Skater (1-10) (1-10) (Check if applicable) per change/per skater. Partner PARTNER ENTRIES Sim Mix Partner Name Partner ISI # Age as of event Couple Level _____ ______ Dance Level _____ ______ Pair Level _____ ______ Free Dance (3-10) Level __ ______ Couple Spotlight Low (Both Skaters Pre-Alpha-FS3) Char. Dram. Lt. Enter. ______ Couple Spotlight High (Either Skater FS4-FS10) ______ Char. Dram. Lt. Enter. Registration Fees are non-refundable ISI reserves the right to limit the number of entries NOTES: *Memberships must be current through the event. Membership renewals may without notice. accompany this entry form. All test and memberships must be registered with the ISI Headquarters. I skate at this competition at my own risk and hereby release ISI, the host facility(ies) and their personnel from all liability. I declare that the home rink listed above is the true rink/club/school that I wish to represent. Fees and Payment (all amounts are USD) Upon entering this competition, I hereby agree that any photographs or video tapes taken of me, by ISI First Event $55.00 * ENTRY FEES DOUBLED or any authorized party, may be used exclusively for any purpose by the ISI or any other use authorized Each Additional. $20.00 by the ISI. AFTER ENTRY DEADLINE! Family Entry. $90.00 (Covers all family members’ first entry; each additional entry $20.00 per person/ per event.) Skater Signature Date ISIA Education Foundation Donation enclosed $5.00. Membership fee enclosed $10.00 Domestic Parent/Guardian (if applicable) Date (for new/expired members to ISI) $15.00 Foreign I declare that the information above is true, that this skater’s test(s) is/are registered, that the skater is a current individual member of the ISI, and is skating in the proper categories and levels, and that the home Total enclosed: $ ______make check payable to ISI rink listed above is correct. ISI Use: Check # ______Amount ______Date Received______Instructor Signature Date ❏ American Express ❏ Visa ❏ MasterCard ❏ Discover ______Card # Exp. Date Cardholder (please print) ______Authorized Signature Telephone Number (must be included) ...Continued from page 10 arenas when the proposed new four- Centre by spring 2004. The new, started in February to make way for the plex is built at a cost of $17 million, approximately $4-million facility is construction of a $30 million multi- even though the aging arenas need needed to replace the antiquated plex. The new building, a public-pri- $1.15 million for repairs and mainte- Peach King Arena. vate venture between the city and RG nance this year. Properties, is expected to open in late • Brantford, ON – County officials are August 2004. • Sydney, NS – Planners estimate that looking for a site for a proposed twin the proposed multi-purpose Millenni- pads ice arena to replace 80-year-old Syl • Halifax, NS – A group of business- um Sportsplex will cost $9.5 million Aps arena. Repairs are planned for the men have reportedly approached the but the municipality contends that sev- aging Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre. Halifax Regional Municipality about eral items were left out of the cost esti- building a three-rink complex in the mates and that the project could cost • Vernon, BC – A liquor-fueled “mini- city. If built on city-owned property, as much as $14.5 million. The proposed riot” broke out at Vernon’s multiplex the facility might cost between $10 mil- facility, with a target date for comple- during a hockey game between the Ver- lion and $14 million. tion in October 2004, will include dual non Vipers and the Salmon Arm Silver- ice surfaces, a walking track and gym. backs in February. There was fighting in • Kingsville, ON – A feasibility study the stands and the parking lot. Other determined inadequate demand for a • Berwick, NS – A committee has disturbances included a streaker run- second ice surface for the community raised $1.5 million toward its $3 mil- ning across the ice and someone set off recreation complex. Residents are lion commitment for a new $6-mil- a firework inside the arena. Extra secu- being asked to approve an $8.7 million arena and sports complex. Plans rity had been hired and security volun- lion addition to the complex that call for an NHL-sized ice surface to teers were also on duty. Ten police offi- would include a gym, indoor walking replace the small, 53-year-old Berwick cers were required to break up the track, a teen centre, a family resource Arena. Construction is not expected melee. No fighting penalties were centre, space for seniors and seven to start until 2005-06. assessed against players during the meeting rooms. The price tag would game. include renovations to the existing • Grimsby, ON – If everything goes building and the addition of six according to plans there will be twin • Victoria, BC – Demolition of the dressing rooms but no pool or second ice rinks in Grimsby’s Community almost 54-year-old Memorial Arena was ice pad.

Continued on page 44...

the edge may/june 2003 33 Mid-Atlantic Arena ice out, we completely rehab our building after a hard, busy winter season. We paint locker rooms; scrub walls, dasher Managers Association boards and rink glass; do annual maintenance on the ice (MAMA) resurfacer, HVAC and refrigeration system; and the list does- by Trudy Ivory n’t seem to end.

Our next MAMA meeting is sched- In news from around the state, the Milwaukee School of uled for April 23, 2003, a few days Engineering is scheduled to break ground on a $31 million, after this EDGE issue goes to 210,00-square-foot athletic complex to be known as the Kern print. We will visit the Iceoplex Center. The center will include a 1,600-seat hockey arena and at Southpoint in Canonsburg, a 1,200-seat basketball gymnasium. PA. I hope we have a good attendance for this meeting as John Durst During the last WIAMA Board meeting, the Pettit National from FastIce in Ontario, Canada is our guest speaker. I am Ice Center in Milwaukee was selected as the site for our 4th intrigued by the concept of making ice with your existing Annual Fall Fire-Up to be held in late August. The Fall Fire- ice resurfacer. We all know that no two people drive a resur- Up is a “FREE” one-day workshop for all WIAMA member facer the same way. I’ll share what I learn in the next EDGE rink employees. or you can call or e-mail me for information. I hope everyone had a successful, safe winter season. See you Membership forms are coming in from old and new MAMA all in Las Vegas at the ISI Conference in May. members. If you haven’t sent your form and dues, please do so. At $25 per facility and $75 for vendors, per year, we are a For further information on WIAMA or to be put on our mailing great value! But remember, paying your dues isn’t enough to list, contact Nancy Hacker, c/o WIAMA, 700 Shady Lane, make this organization work. You need to attend meetings to Neenah, WI 54956, or call Nancy at 920-731-9731, extension 10. get the most out of MAMA. I realize as well as the next arena manager/owner how hard it is to make plans in our line of work; you never know what’s going to happen next, but Metropolitan Ice Rink Managers making the time to go outside your facility to visit other are- Association (MIRMA) nas is really the best way to learn what’s going on. by Judith P. Sniffen, President

My arena is a seasonal facility, and we will be closing in a Tribute to Fritz Dietl few weeks for the summer. As this season comes to a close, by Richard A. Arenella I’ve looked back on the past eight months and reflected about the season we’ve had. Overall, in my 11 years of work- Fritz Dietl was an icon of the skating world. With his passing ing for the City of Greensburg, I am happy to say the on March 22, the skating community lost a dear friend, com- 2002/2003 season has been one of our best. One reason for petitor, skating historian, teacher, successful rink operator the improvement has been my involvement with our youth and industry leader. Many articles will report the accom- hockey league in relationship with having the officers agree plishments and impact Fritz had on the skating world. It is to include me on their board as a non-voting member. This not my intent to talk about Fritz the legend of the skating has provided both of us the opportunity to get to know each industry. To me, he was a man of great stature whose hand- other better and has helped them to realize I’m not the some features and easy smile endeared him to all who “nasty rink witch” they thought I was. Just kidding. crossed his path. Fritz was always ready to share a joke; he loved to make people laugh. His desire not to offend others My point is, working together works. I put just as much time often clashed with his hilarious punch lines. into a relationship with my figure skating director, coaches, skaters and parents as I do with my part-time staff, public He was passionate about anything to do with ice skating. If session customers and our program participants. I feel that in you did not share that passion, he would not hesitate to order to make our season successful, we have to give100% to show his displeasure and begin a lengthy discourse on why everyone. No one group should ever feel that they are any his feelings were more correct than yours. Yes, Fritz could be more or less important than another group. stubborn; however, he was stubborn with such grace and charm that you could never get upset with him. His com- I hope by the time this is printed MAMA members will have mitment to ISI and MIRMA was evident in everything he did. enjoyed our April meeting and that they are looking forward He, along with his lovely wife Carolla, never missed a meet- to our July gathering while enjoying the warm weather. For ing. He participated in every discussion, providing historical more information on MAMA, contact Trudy Ivory at perspective and great knowledge and enthusiasm. [email protected]. Fritz will never be forgotten. His mark on the ice skating indus- Wisconsin Ice Arena Management try will remain indelible and his presence will always be felt. Association (WIAMA) by John Wardman, Vice President *** On April 4, 2003, MIRMA held its Spring Managers Semi- Greetings from WIAMA. The season is over; in my case, ice nar/Meeting at Atvazzy’s Nineteenth Hole Restaurant on the comes out April 17 through the first week in June. With the Fairchild Wheeler Golf Course in Bridgeport, CT. President 34 the edge may/june 2003 Judy Sniffen opened the meeting with a moment of silence ergy on a new system of fluorescent lighting that is 30% in memory of Fritz Dietl. Lisa Fedick, our host, welcomed brighter at about half the wattage per fixture; and Stan Bel- everyone to her hometown. liveau and Al Orlson on skate sharpening.

The following MIRMA Board members were re-elected: Judith At the close of the meeting, attendees toured the Bridgeport Sniffen, President; Bob Koch, 1st Vice President; Kevin Harbor Yard Arena and some took in a hockey game. Thanks McCormack, 2nd Vice President; Lisa Fedick, Secretary; Janet to Lisa Fedick for the fine tour of her neighborhood. Wolkon, Treasurer; and Richard Arenella, District III Repre- sentative. The Board pledged to continue to work for the bet- Michigan Arena Managers Association terment of the District and industry. (MAMA) The MIRMA/District III competition is scheduled for June 14- by Carol Burns, ISI District 6 Representative 15, 2003 at The Rinx, in Hauppauge, Long Island, NY. For more information, contact Carola Mandeville at [email protected] or MAMA will host its first annual Michigan Arena Managers Judy Sniffen at [email protected] or call 516-628-2240. Association Summer Conference, June 16-17, 2003 at the Tree- tops Resort in Gaylord, MI. The Conference will kick off with A joint meeting proposal between MIRMA and NEISMA has a lunch and vendor display on Monday, will include guest been agreed upon. Deane Pomeroy, the NEISMA representative speakers and breakout sessions, a social Monday evening, addi- to MIRMA, attended the April 4 MIRMA meeting. The purpose tional sessions on Tuesday, and conclude with lunch and of the agreement is to bring the organizations closer together optional golf Tuesday afternoon. For additional information, while expanding their reach. Each organization has its focus. contact Diane Wilson at 734-213-1600, extension 250. NEISMA is strong in the operations and maintenance side of the business, how to operate arenas, while MIRMA’s strengths The ice arena industry continues to grow in MI. Consider the lie in the programming side of the business, how to make following statistics: money. The synergy between the two organizations is obvious. • There are 129 ice arenas in the state. The organizations will retain their independence but have com- • There are over 57,000 registered hockey players in MI – mon interaction. MIRMA and NEISMA members are encour- number one in the U.S. aged to attend both groups’ meetings. • Over 3,700 girls play hockey in MI, a growing number each year. Presenters at the MIRMA Spring meeting included Charles • Over 14,000 men and women play senior hockey in MI – Shoulberg on Youth Sportsmanship; Peter Kelly of Intellen- number one in the U.S.

the edge may/june 2003 35 ing arenas in mid-June. Practice ice reservations are not made through ISI; contact the host arenas to reserve practice ice Coaches for participating teams and skaters. Corner Team Photos Due to printing deadlines, photos received after June 20 will by Lynn Roseberry not be included in the CHAMPS souvenir program book. National Events Coordinator and Team Photos may be black and white or color. On the back Lynn Roseberry Skating Program Director of each photo, attach team name, home rink, city and state information on a label. PLEASE DO NOT WRITE ON THE PHOTOS. Photos will not be returned. World Recreational Championships Check www.skateisi.org for CHAMPS information as it The 2003 ISI World Recreational becomes available. Team Championships are fast approaching. As you prepare for this annual competition in Chica- Adult Chamionships go, IL at Northbrook Sports Center, Glenview Ice Arena and Twin Rinks The 2003 Adult Championships are Ice Pavillion, July 28 – August 2, heading to the Northeast! Cape Cod is here are a few reminders and updates. The 2003 ISI World the site for the September 12-14th Recreational Team Championships will be conducted in strict event at the Charles Moore Ice Arena in accordance with the most recent editions of the ISI Skaters Orleans, MA. The entry deadline is August and Coaches Handbook, Competitors Handbook, and Judges Man- 1. Skaters who have participated in this ual. Be sure to check the ISI website for the tentative schedule, event in the past describe it as “incredible, hotels, and updated information regarding CHAMPS. exhilarating, awesome, exciting, supportive and inspiring,” as they prove that skating is Practice Ice a lifetime sport. We look forward to seeing both familiar and new faces at this ever-growing event! Information regarding practice ice for CHAMPS will be included in the first informational packet sent to participat- SEE YOU IN CHICAGO AND ON CAPE COD!

36 the edge may/june 2003 Synchronized Skating Championships

The Arctic Ice Arena in Orland Park, IL was the site of the 2003 ISI Synchronized Skating Cham- pionships - the largest Synchronized Championships in ISI history with 1,600 skaters on 126 teams. The event was fabulous, fun and inspiring – so many skaters having a great time working in harmony. A complete list of results is posted on our website: www.skateisi.org.

Thanks to all of the Referees, judges, and volunteers who made this event run smoothly. Special thanks to Sue and Jesus Zaragoza of Arctic Ice Arena for all of their efforts in pro- ducing this event.

2003 ISI Synchronized Skating Championships Final Rounds Results

SELECT YOUTH PREMIER TEEN 1 Fire On Ice Southwest Ice Arena 1 Chicago Skates McFetridge Sports Arena 2 Ice Kicks Bielenberg Sports Arena 1 Synchro Panache Minneapolis/Augsburg 3 Synchro STL Jade Blades St. Peters Rec Plex 3 Oxford Ice Crystals Goggin Ice Arena 4 STL North Stars North County Rec. Complex 4 Chicago Jazz Jun. Classic Rolling Meadows 5 Icicles Eddie Edgar 5 Synchro STL Edge Webster Groves Ice Arena 6 Rubies Grand Oaks Ice Arena 6 STL North Stars North County Rec. Complex 6 Precicettes Center Ice of DuPage 6 Starz Swonder Ice Arena 6 Team Chiller The Chiller, LLC 6 Synchro Starz Aerodrome-Willowbrook PREMIER YOUTH 1 Synchro Panache Minneapolis/Augsburg 2 Team Braemar Braemar Arena SELECT SENIOR YOUTH 3 Chicago Jazz Rolling Meadows 1 Ice Crystals Crystal Ice House 4 Synchro STL Blades Webster Groves Ice Arena 2 Dazzlers Downers Grove Ice Arena 5 Dazzlers Downers Grove Ice Arena 3 Precicetts DuPage 6 Synchro STL Brackets Webster Groves Ice Arena 4 Silver Blade Brigade Kennedy Recreation Complex 6 Team Chiller The Chiller, LLC 5 Team Elite Fox Valley Ice Arena 6 Tremors Yerba Buena 6 Team Chiller Chiller @ Easton 6 Team Mystique Wilcoxen Ice Complex 6 Synchro Starz Aerodrome-Willowbrook 6 Rinkside Sr Extreme Aerodrome-Willowbrook 6 Big Rapids Elite Big Rapids FSC SELECT ADULT 6 HF Icettes Homewood-Flossmorr 1 Austintatious Stars Chaparral Ice 6 Ice Rockers Elite Brentwood Ice Arena 2 Synchro STL Sapphires St. Peters Rec Plex 6 Garden City Ice Crystals Garden City Civic Arena 3 Diamonds Grand Oaks Ice Arena 4 Starfire Adult Rocket Ice Arena PREMIER SENIOR YOUTH 1 Synchro Panache Minneapolis Augsburg SELECT TEEN 2 Chicago Jazz Shoot. Stars Rolling Meadows Ice Arena 1 Team Braemar Braemar Arena 3 Chicago Jazz Juvenile Rolling Meadows Ice Arena 2 Gold Blade Brigade Kennedy Recreation Complex 4 Junior Blades Glenview Ice Center 3 Dazzlers Downers Grove Ice Arena 5 Crystal Edges The Edge 4 Starfire Rocket Ice Arena 6 Gold Star Blades Zion Ice Arena 5 Capital Classics Washington Park Ice Arena 6 Ice Gems St. Peters Rec Plex 6 High Voltage Parkaire World on Ice 6 Capital Classics Washington Park Ice Arena 6 The Fine Line Cottage Grove Ice Arena 6 Jr Starfire Rocket Ice Arena 6 Precicettes Center Ice of DuPage 6 32 Degrees US Ice Sports Complex-FH 6 HF Icettes Homewood-Flossmoor Ice Arena 6 Chicago Skates McFetridge Sports Center 6 Sapphires Grand Oaks Ice Arena 6 Starr Blades Franklin Park Ice Arena 6 Tremors Yerba Buena the edge may/june 2003 37 Energy Saving Tips by Jeffrey Doucette

ith ever-increasing utility bished with timers or motion detectors. energy savings for the facility as well. For costs, even small energy sav- those of you who have game rooms, this Wings efforts will add up over As a general rule, most arenas open their might be worth looking into. the long haul. Installation of new, more doors in the early morning. A staff mem- energy-efficient equipment is always a ber makes the rounds of the facility Check with your local utility provider plus but can be prohibitive due to the checking everything and getting ready for other tips or programs they may initial cost. Some examples of major to perform the normal, daily functions. have. Our local provider donated 12 equipment purchases would be refrig- Often this means that lights are turned heat and motion detectors to our facil- eration compressor systems, light fix- on and stay on until the facility closes ity and provided suggestions on which tures that utilize energy-efficient bal- for the day. Not everyone remembers or rooms they should be used in as well as lasts or a dimmer system for the less bothers to turn off the lights in rooms where in the rooms they should be active periods, desiccant dehumidifica- when they leave. Any space that is not installed. We also installed timers on tion, and natural gas burning water continuously occupied during opera- our gas heaters over the spectators’ seat- boilers or heaters instead of propane, tional hours could be controlled by a ing; some facilities use coin operated electric, or oil. timer or motion detector. The energy timers instead. savings depend on the number of areas There are smaller less costly options affected and time of use. But my philos- Decreasing energy costs is essential to available that may be beneficial, ophy is nothing ventured, nothing lost. your bottom line. If you have cost sav- depending upon the set-up and use of “Lost” meaning the number of kilowatt- ing tips that have worked in your facil- your facility. Motion detectors and hours you will be saving. Our local ity, please share them. timers for lighting in less frequently vending machine distributor installed used areas can work very well. Mechan- motion detectors near the machines * Jeffrey Doucette is the Facilities Supervi- ical rooms, locker rooms, offices, party that shut down the lighting inside the sor at the University of Delaware and the rooms, shower rooms, hallways, even machines when not being used. Their District 4 Representative on the ISI Board the ice resurfacing machine room, and claim is that they do not have to replace of Directors. He can be reached by e-mail over-head gas heaters can be refur- the bulbs as often, but it adds to the at [email protected].

38 the edge may/june 2003

Classified Ads HOCKEY PROGRAMS MANAGER - The Dallas Stars Dr obtain Florida drivers license prior to appointment. Bachelor’s Pepper StarCenters is seeking an energetic and self motivat- degree in Business, Recreation Management or related field ed Hockey Manager. This full time position includes salary, can substitute for one year of experience. medical benefits, paid vacation, Dallas Stars perks and an DESIRES: Membership in State or National Ice Rink incentive bonus. This position will have the overall respon- Management Association and Ice Arena Institute of sibility for managing and growing our youth and adult Management (IAIM) certification. Strong skating back- hockey programs at our Euless facility. In addition, the per- ground with knowledge of figure skating teaching methods son in this position will be a member of the Dr Pepper and techniques. Knowledge of ISI and USFSA programs. StarCenter management team, and as such, will assist as Knowledge of hockey instructional programs and leagues. needed in overall business operations. Contact Kent Holmes Ability to supervise ice shows and competitions. the Executive Director of Hockey at 972-831-2486 or email APPLICATION PROCESS: Submit 2 resumes to: City of your resume to [email protected]. Miami Beach Human Resources 1700 Convention Center Drive Miami Beach, FL 33139 ATT: IRM-ISI or email resume SKATING PROGRAMS MANAGER -The Dallas Stars Dr to [email protected] (include IRM-ISI in Pepper StarCenters is seeking an energetic and self motivat- email heading). No Fax accepted. This position is open ed Skating Programs Manager. This full time position until filled. For information on the City of Miami Beach, includes salary, medical benefits, paid vacation, Dallas Stars please visit our website at: www.miamibeachfl.gov perks and an incentive bonus. This position will have the EOE/AA/ADA/VET/ PREF PER FL LAW overall responsibility for managing and growing our ISI skating school and figure skating program at our Irving area PROFESSIONAL WANTED: The Aerodrome Ice Skating facility. In addition, the person in this position will be a Complexes offer beautiful suburban locations, three 200’ x member of the Dr Pepper StarCenter management team, 85’ ice surfaces, large ISI skating school, and two competi- and as such, will assist as needed in overall business opera- tive USFSA clubs. The successful applicant will be highly tions. Some experience and knowledge of ISI & USFSA pro- motivated, a member of the ISI and PSA, and work well in a grams is a must. Please email your resume to team coaching environment. Send resume to: Andrew [email protected] or send to 211 Cowboys Parkway Foland, c/o Aerodrome, 8220 Willow Place N., Houston, Texas Irving, TX 75063. 77070, e-mail: [email protected], fax: 281-897-0210.

ICE RINK MANAGER $35,283 - $56,985 ANNUALLY - Salary negotiable based on experience. The City provides a progressive benefits package. The City of Miami Beach, FL is seeking an Ice Rink Manager for the newly built Ice Rink facility at the Scott Rakow Youth Center. This position is responsible for managerial work in the daily operations of the ice rink. REQUIRED: Three years experience in ice rink management including supervisory, programming and customer service experience. Current drivers license from any state, and must

Bronze Certification Test Online

Judges can now log on to www.skateisi.org to access and take the Bronze Certification test. Log on. Supply a credit card number. Download and print the test and answer sheet. Take the test and fax or mail the answer sheet and identification form to ISI to quickly, easily and efficiently update your judging credentials. the edge may/june 2003 41 Buffalo Figure Skating Club Idaho IceWorld Wicker Memorial Park 166 Park Place Circle Pepper Reese North Township Trustee Montrose, MN 55363 7072 Eisenman Road Janice Orlich Ph 763-675-3560 Boise, ID 83716 8554 Indianapolis Blvd Ph 208-331-0044 Highland, IN 46322 City of Greeley Fax 208-331-7983 Ph 219-838-3420 Recreation Dept Fax 219-838-3126 651 10th Avenue Juneau/Douglas Ice Greeley, CO 80631 Association Worthington Ice Center Ph 970-350-9400 PO Box 211194 Paul Donskov Fax 970-350-9463 Auke Bay, AK 99821 401 E Wilson Bridge Rd Ph 907-465-5137 Worthington, OH 43085 City of Kodiak Parks Fax 907-465-5177 Ph 614-880-9423 and Recreation Dept Fax 614-880-0350 Ian Fulp Tri-Valley Roller Hockey 410 Cedar Street League New Builders/Suppliers Kodiak, AK 99615 Walter B Collins Ph 907-486-8670 12415 Willow Forest Drive PowerSkater New Rinks/Clubs/Schools Fax 907-486-8674 Moorpark, CA 93021 Ron Bulloch Ph 805-529-7529 6134 Eagle Creek Dr 9/11 Families Give City of Shakopee Fax 805-241-3499 Ft Wayne, IN 46814 Back Fund Joshua Barrick Ph 260-672-1700 c/o NMG 1790 Broadway 1255 Fuller St Twin Oaks Ice Rink, LLC Fax 260-672-1905 Suite 400 Shakopee, MN 55379 Paul Nielsen Jr New York, NY 10019 Ph 952-233-3838 65 Columbia Rd Sportlite Inc Ph 212-424-0116 Fax 952-233-3831 Morristown, NJ 07960 Bill Schrader Fax 212-582-8655 Ph 973-292-5699 5355 N 51st Ave #26 Fax 973-292-5698 Glendale, AZ 85301 Ph 623-930-0074 Fax 623-930-0045

42 the edge may/june 2003 New Associate Members Licari, John Paul - CT Advertisers Index Lockett, Lisa - IL Alderson, Karen - WA Magerovskiy, Rebecca - MI American Locker ...... 20 Ball, Tiffany - IL Mazzatenta, Stephanie - FL Athletica Inc./Crystaplex ...... 5 Baumann, Christine - NY McDougle, Sean Ian - TX Becker Arena Products ...... 39 Blanchard, Jennifer - VA Minton, Daniel - FL Bonestroo & Associates ...... 44 Byham, Julie - PA Myhre, Robin - OR Burley’s Rink Supply ...... 15 Casey, Mari - CA Nagel, Cassidy - WA Canlan Ice Sports ...... 29 Cushley, Neil - TX Neufeld, Cameron - CA Cimco Refrigeration ...... 25 Darken, Colleen - IL Passi, Shanel - HI Commercial Refrigeration ...... OBC Everts, Miriam - OH Perkins, Kirtley - TX Concepts & Designs ...... 7 Covermaster ...... 23 Festog, Karen - VA Purdy, Nicole - FL Earth Technology Corp...... 27 Friedson, Elise - FL Rekar, Jennifer - IL Ed K Ice Sports ...... 42 Fulton, Margaret - FL Rotroff, Debra - WY Facility Management Corp...... 11 Gifford-Mackey, Denise - OH Ruskin, Joanna - NY First National Merchant Solutions ...... 40 Gillon, Jessica - CA Serifin, Monica - IL FrontLine Solutions ...... 39 Goddard, Gregory - MI Sidorov, Stanislav - TX Goldner Associates ...... 33 Hamid, Iain - NY Smulson, Tamara - CA Honco Inc...... 41 Harrell, Destiny - WI Stoudmann, Celyne - VA Ice Builders ...... 36 Jet Ice Ltd...... 38 Heldman, Breanne - NY Takeuchi-Eldredge, Dianne -TX K&K Insurance ...... 35 Hickok, Mark - AZ Tallon, Lynn - IL Maximum Solutions ...... 14 Hunka, Ryan - NY Tymoshenko, Nataliya - FL Mollenberg-Betz ...... 43 Johnston, Kelsey - MO Van Pelt, Barbara - NY Mondo USA ...... IBC Klimp, Sonja - CA Warner, Julie - MA Rice Specialty Risk ...... 13 Kobayashi, Kristen - MI Wong, Stephanie - PA Richardson Group, The ...... 9 Lange, Stuart - OH Wright, Daniel - FL Riedell Skate Co ...... 31 Larson, Priscilla - NJ Yamry, Schonda - HI Skater’s Edge Sourcebook ...... 33 SP-Teri Co...... 19 Lasater, Ashley - CA Yovanovich, Andrea - IN VSC Sports ...... 42 Levy, Gary - FL Zehmer, Heidi - VA Zamboni ...... 17 Lewis, Jaclyn - CA

the edge may/june 2003 43 ...Continued from page 33 • Lakefield, ON – The $500,000 in porate support or local fundraising arena that will be the home of Saint provincial SuperBuild funding may not efforts, the cost of a new facility is at Mary’s varsity hockey teams, student be enough to secure the proposed issue. programming and youth skill develop- world-class speeding skating oval for ment camps, plus community hockey Lakefield if the federal government fails • Peterborough, ON – Councillors and skating programs. A $2-million gift to provide money for the project. approved renovations to Memorial from the late Bob Dauphinee will con- About $2.5 million has been raised Centre even though bids for the project tribute to the project. toward the $5 million needed to con- are nearly $800,000 over the approxi- struct the 400-metre oval and build- mately $11-million budget. Lower TRINIDAD ings. Another municipality in the interest rates mean the $1 million Toronto area is considering building a annual principal and interest payments • The first rock-climbing wall in the speed oval. There are only two other will likely be unchanged from the esti- Caribbean has been set up at the Movi- speed ovals in Canada, one at St. Foy, mate at the time of the feasibility study. eTowne complex by Kreative Innova- Que. and the other in Calgary. tions. Other plans call for the addition • Cold Lake, AB – In February, 63 per- of Lazer tag, an ice skating rink and a • Amherstburg, ON – The city of cent of voters rejected a proposal for an Bungee Trampoline. Amherstburg has purchased 79 acres for $18-million recreation complex with a recreation complex that could accom- an indoor soccer arena, ice surfaces, modate soccer fields and a new twin- seniors’ center and running track. The pad arena. complex would have meant a 10% tax increase for Cold Lake’s 12,000 resi- • Essex, ON – According to the recre- dents. Similar complexes have been Editor’s Note: “CrossCuts” is com- ation director, 42-year-old Essex Memo- built in Strathcona and Parkland coun- piled from press releases and pub- rial Arena needs to be replaced and ties and Fort Saskatchewan, Leduc and lished reports. Submit information twinned. To rebuild the single-pad St. Albert are working on proposals for to Editor, ISI EDGE, 17120 N Dal- arena would cost about $4 million; recreational centers. twinning it would double the cost. las Pkwy, Suite 140, Dallas, TX Inspections indicate the likelihood of • Halifax, NS – Saint Mary’s Universi- 75248-1187; fax to 972-735- closure for the facility in five to 10 ty’s athletics and recreation facilities 8815; e-mail to [email protected]. years for safety reasons. Without cor- renewal project will include a new

44 the edge may/june 2003 he ISIA Education Foundation is pleased to introduce Auction items or certificates must arrive at the ISI office by its new logo. Look for it on all future materials relat- May 12, 2003. If you prefer to make a cash donation, please Ting to the Foundation. make checks payable to ISIA Education Foundation. By donating items or cash to the Education Foundation, you’re “We wanted to create a more streamlined, clean, modern supporting the future of the ice arena industry. logo,” said Foundation Board Secretary Craig Cichy. “The new logo combines the focus of the Foundation – Skating, Contributions Received Scholarship, Service – in the blade image, the word “education” in bold and “foundation” referring to our not-for- The ISIA Education Foundation gratefully acknowledges the profit status. We are thrilled to have this updated logo and following contributions: hope that we can use it to build momentum for the Foundation in regards to fundraising, image and exposure.” Sponsor ($1,000-$4,999): Metropolitan Ice Rink Managers Association (MIRMA) Foundation trustees are gearing up for what always proves in memory of Fritz Dietl to be an exciting and fun fundraising event, the silent and Chimney Rock on Ice, Inc. Figure Skating Club live auctions held during the ISI Conference and Trade Show, May 27-29, 2003 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Contributor ($100-$249): “This is a place and time where we get to bid on and buy Burt & Judith Sniffen in memory of Fritz Dietl fun stuff and know that our money is going to a great cause,” said Judith Sniffen, Auction Committee Chair and Friend ($25-$99): Foundation Board Treasurer. Money raised goes to fund col- Nina Carbone Cassandra Snow lege scholarships for outstanding ISI skater/scholars. Frances Schultz John & Gayle Scirocco

Each year generous individuals, groups and builder/supplier ISI Other: members donate items for the auctions and attendees enjoy the SG Figure Skating Boosters Club lively and fun-filled process of bidding for treasures. If you have an item(s) to donate to this year’s auction, please contact Judy Sniffen at 516-628-240 or send e-mail to [email protected].

Skaters are the backbone of our industry; by contributing to this scholarship effort you are supporting your business, and your contributions are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. New ISI Manuals Available

New Publication: ISI’s Programming Guide for Arena Managers, Skating and Hockey Directors is now available. This valuable newly revised resource covers how to run If you wish to join our growing list of supporters, you may use this ISI group class programs for hockey and recre- form to make a contribution. This generous support will enable the ISIA Education Foundation to achieve its goals and objectives. ational ice skating. It is filled with helpful tips and sample forms. Call ISI at 972-735-8800 to Name ______order. Cost: $20 plus shipping and handling. Street Address ______City, State, Zip ______The newly revised 2002-2003 editions of Skaters and Coaches Handbook and Com- Amount of Donation $ ______petitors Handbook are available. Call ISI to Method of payment ( ) Check order a set with binder or to order the hand- ( ) Charge: Visa MasterCard Discover [please circle] books individually. Both manuals are available Number ______in shrink-wrap for inserting in the binder (avail- Exp. Date ______able from ISI). All 2003 ISI competitions will be Your Signature ______held in strict accordance with the rules in the 2002-2003 Skaters and Coaches Handbook Mail to: ISIA Education Foundation and 2002-2003 Competitors Handbook. 17120 N. Dallas Parkway, Suite 140 Dallas, TX 75248-1187 the edge may/june 2003 45 ...Continued from page 28 Long-time skating instructor Erika It was a real gift that he was able Amundsen knew Fritz for 40 years. She to give confidence, help and guid- describes him as “very outgoing, friend- ance to so many young people. ly, always helpful, the most generous- He instilled a great deal of self- hearted person I can think of.” esteem.”

Richard Zamboni describes Fritz as “a “Fritz would often say, ‘The only really unique guy, a unique performer, limitations that you have are the teacher, rink operator and contributor to ones that are self-imposed. It’s all the sport.” in your mind, not your body. You can achieve most any objective you Robert Unger, also a former professional set yourself to,’” fondly remembers skater, an ice arena owner/operator/skat- Scott. ing director, ISI Board member and insti- gator of the ISI Learn to Skate Program, The one with the fondest memo- said of Fritz, “He was always full of jokes, ries of Fritz is his beloved wife of telling jokes from every decade. He will almost 40 years, Carola, a woman remain my idol and I miss him.” who is described by all who are privileged to know her as beautiful, Patti Feeney, ISI Director of Member charming, witty, intelligent, gra- Programs and Services, says, “Fritz was a cious and kind. Not since Nancy force with a passion for ice skating. He Reagan bestowed her glowing look was one of a kind. He was generous and of adoration on Ronald Reagan has fair. His legacy will live forever. I knew anyone matched the look between Fritz since 1963 and had tremendous Fritz and Carola. At ISI Conferences respect for his knowledge, generosity they walked hand-in-hand, smiling and total dedication to our sport. I’ll and acknowledging all they met, miss his historical skating knowledge but the moment was theirs. She and very corny jokes.” clearly, unequivocally adored him and he her. Bob Mock, Skating Director at Center Ice Arena in Delmont, PA, said, “Fritz had When asked to describe Fritz, Car- an incredible memory and an incredible A joyful Fritz Dietl accepts his Lifetime Achievement ola said, “How do I describe my command of skating. He was an icon of Award at the 1996 Awards Luncheon. love? He was not always the most the sport and a great role model. His diplomatic, but he was always hon- legacy will be his perspective, the perspective he brought to est. He never did anything that was against his grain. He ISI and PSA and to coaches and rink managers. He had a never said anything that was malicious or vicious. He was a vision of raising the level of professionalism in managing, very honorable man.” coaching and the entire sport, and because of Fritz and that vision, we are much better off as an industry today.” Of Fritz’s biggest contribution to the world of ice skating, Carola says, “If every coach would be as open-minded as Fritz One who knew and benefited from Fritz’s exceptional talents was, he wanted to learn from everybody, then coaching was Olympic figure skater Scott Allen who started taking would be better.” skating lessons from Fritz at age four. “Fritz was the con- summate teacher,” says Scott. “He was a suburb technical Fritz’s multi-faceted, lengthy career produced many high teacher of skating and he gave students insight into the sport points and interesting experiences. The best for Fritz, accord- and life. Fritz had a wonderful character and charisma. He ing to Carola: “I think he liked the Sonja Henie show, but he was a positive influence for me and for many others during also liked very much that he was the first pro to go to China our formative years. He instilled a sense of accomplishment with Don Laws; they taught skaters there. Everything was in all his students, no matter what their level was. He was written down by the Chinese, and they video taped every- excellent at motivating, not intimidating. He was good at thing. I think he was proud of that, that he could influence enabling people to achieve something they didn’t think they skating in China. Also, ISI was very dear to his heart. He was could achieve. Fritz practiced sports psychology long before always very proud of how it evolved and became more and it was known as such.” more faceted.”

Under Fritz’s tutelage Scott won an Olympic Bronze medal At the graveside service for Fritz, Carola says, “Suddenly a when he was 14, a Silver medal at Worlds and two National complete calm came over me; it was almost as if Fritz was Championships. there saying, ‘It’s all right.’”

“I see Fritz not only as a teacher, an instructor, a coach of Charismatic, gracious, generous and kind, strong-willed, skating but also as a teacher of good character,” said Scott. stubborn and opinionated – all describe the man Carole Shul- “He taught life lessons and gave direction. Fritz was multi- man called a gentle giant. Scott Allen sums up our thoughts, dimensional, and he gave that to his students, not just the “He was a wonderful man and he will be missed.” The skat- emotional support, the insight; that was his driving force. ing world has lost a magnificent icon. Farewell, Fritz, may I think he was an instructor in the truest sense of the word. you rest in peace and continue to smile upon us. 46 the edge may/june 2003