Amy Marten

I am writing to let you know why Riverview is important to our family. My son decided eight years ago he wanted to give hockey a try. I signed him up for learn to skate and the rest is history. I heard about Riverview possibly being shut down and immediately felt upset. Riverview has become our home away form home the last eight years and I actually think we have spent more time there then our actual house. Our family has made so many connections that will last a lifetime while being at the rink. My son has made a number of friendships and memories that he will remember always and connect back to Riverview. 

I feel that this rink is unique because of the off ice training facility. Also, Dinky Rink adds an extra sheet of ice for teams to practice and play on.  I think this closure could have a negative affect on businesses for the downtown area. My first thought was well obviously Prairie Street Brewing Co would be hurt by all the business from families of our teams leaving, but also when we have games all the families from out of town go there as well. I then began to think of all the other places we actually go because we are down there and they began to add up. I am going to provide the places we visit below because we always say, "well since we will be at Riverview we might as well go to..."  Vintage 501, Carlisle Brewing, Woodfire Brick Oven, Taco Betty's, District Bar and Grill, Capri Pizza, Blue Line Sports Pub - for lunch or dinner.  The Parlour downtown is where my son gets his hair cut because it is conveniently located near Riverview and we can get that taken care of on the way to practice.  My husband also joined The Lombardi club this past year knowing we would be downtown at Riverview so often.  

I am asking the Rockford Park District to please take into consideration all the impact closing Riverview could have on the downtown community. Thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts!