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HANCOCK — Copper Shores Community Health Foundation introduced a grant to Laird Township of $106,395 to assist deliver much-needed updates to the neighborhood ice rink in Alston. For a few years, the ice rink has served as a neighborhood gathering area, most closely utilized within the winter. This grant marks a dedication to preserving a beloved native area whereas adapting it for expanded use all year long.

According to a press launch from Copper Shores, The rink performs host to a wide range of teams and actions, together with hockey, open skating, birthday events and extra. Unfortunately, time has taken its toll on the area. The concrete is carrying away, making the floor of the ice uneven and troublesome to take care of. Concerns over security and value prompted motion from native leaders.

“The surface was not ideal for holding the water,” mentioned Pat Spencer, consultant for the Laird Township Recreation Committee. “It’s old asphalt that’s chipped and cracked, so drainage is a problem.”

Making issues worse, the power is open to air and daylight, inflicting points throughout winter. That’s being addressed with the set up of shades. “Without the shades on the side it would melt out in just one corner,” mentioned Spencer.

While winter offered its personal challenges, the hotter months caused completely different limitations. When there isn’t snow on the bottom, the rink is open for pickleball, basketball, volleyball and different recreation alternatives. Even with the rink open throughout the summer time, it remained largely unused as children seemed to the playground and ball subject close by to play and keep away from scraped knees. “It was such a pipe dream,” mentioned Spencer. “I think it’s going to be so much more user-friendly with these upgrades.”

That dream is ready to grow to be a actuality, with renovations centered on accessibility and luxury for all. With multigenerational use in thoughts, the committee aimed to result in adjustments for all ages. In addition to a greater taking part in floor, the rink can also be getting an up to date warming shack and shade cloths to assist preserve people heat and comfortable whereas the ice stays chilly and dry. Renovations will start within the spring of 2026, with upgrades anticipated to be accomplished in late summer time. These enhancements flip the long-loved winter gathering area right into a neighborhood hub that may be utilized throughout all 4 seasons.

According to the discharge, Copper Shores continues to assist community-driven initiatives like this by its grant packages. To study extra concerning the grant alternatives out there at Copper Shores, go to coppershores.org/grants. To obtain a notification for brand new and upcoming grant alternatives, join the free month-to-month electronic mail e-newsletter at coppershores.org/e-newsletter.