H-F ice arena supporters can help win NHL prize

Supporters of the Homewood-Flossmoor Ice Arena are looking for a few great stories and photos that can help win a $150,000 prize through the annual Kraft Hockeyville National Hockey League competition.
 

“We’re looking for people to share their experiences and stories from the H-F rink,” said Chris Cimoch, the ice arena’s hockey coordinator. The website is at www.krafthockeyville.com.
 

Through March 10, hockey and ice skating enthusiasts can help boost the profile of the rink at 777 Kedzie Ave., just north of Homewood-Flossmoor High School.  Judges for this national contest will select four rinks for prizes of $150,000, $30,000 and two of $10,000 for rink repairs. Those four rinks will then be in competition to host an NHL pre-season game.
 

The H-F Ice Arena is home to 10 youth hockey teams, five high school teams, four men’s league teams, and one adult women’s team. It is also the host arena for the H-F Radiance figure skating team, and offers lessons at all levels of proficiency.  The arena also hosts “open skate” sessions for the community, and students show off their skills at an annual ice show.
 

“The H-F Ice Arena has been an important part of the H-F community for 41 years, where multiple generations have developed their passion for hockey and skating,” said Parks Commissioner Brent Bachus. 
 

“However, given its age, the ice arena is in need of a number of anticipated upgrades – in particular, the park district’s biggest concern is finding a way to make ice; the coolant system currently being used is obsolete, and the costs for the R-22 refrigerant are significantly rising.
 

“The H-F Ice Arena is a unique facility that further differentiates H-F from surrounding communities,” Bachus said. “The Kraft Hockeyville cash — and the subsequent support of the NHL — would be a significant win for the H-F community, and enable the park district to make some of the critical decisions around the necessary upgrades.”