A Dying Landmark

   They dot the landscape everywhere, and are as familiar in small towns everywhere as the local hotel. They're also the second social hub in many communities after the hotel. The local ice rink, also known as "The Barn".
   The problem with these old venues, more than a few modelled after the Quonset Hut, is they are coming to the end of their usable life span. Quite a few communities would love to get a new facility for hockey, curling and other events, but it's the cost holding them back. That means a lot are disappearing from the landscape.
   But not in 2 Saskatchewan communities. Wynyard council recently picked a spot for a new arena, which will cost between 6 and 8 million dollars. And in Bredenbury, the local rink should be repaired and back in service in January after a heavy snow load this spring saw a partial roof collapse. The lack of an arena has been an economic blow to Bredenbury, since they rent it out.
   It really is sad to see these facilities waste away. I have very fond memories of the Peace River Curling Club, where, 34 years ago, I curled 4 nights a week. The sound of the old corn broom smacking the ice, the frenzied shouts of "hurry hard" from skips trying to make themselves heard over the boom of the broom.
   The closure of a lot of the rinks also means hardship for local, town based hockey players and teams, who now have to travel quite a distance to play.
   Unfortunately, given the economic times and the cost of replacements, more of these will likely fall by the wayside.

TTFN