By Clay LePard
clepard@cbs4qc.com
It's been nearly a week since Center Ice in Moline opened.
However, locals aren't lacing up the skates for the QC's only outdoor rink just yet.
The opening was pushed back several times, the turnout hasn't been great, and now the bills are piling up. But despite all that, rink workers aren't giving up on their dreams just yet.
"It's a long term investment," says Larry Rosmilso, Center Ice Director. "It's not something just for this year, we'll be here for many years hopefully."
Owners have poured in nearly a million dollars, which includes not only the rink, but a pub and concession stand which aren't even finished yet. And after problems with the rink's ice maker and buying 300 pairs of skates, Center Ice's director says this year might be tough to turn a profit; but things could be looking up.
"When school gets out, and everybody comes out for the first time and tells friends, it'll help pick up in the hundreds and grow from there hopefully," says Rosmilso.
So far, he's already receiving requests for everything from birthday parties to corporate outings. Even today, kids from the Two Rivers YMCA's hit the ice. Kids we spoke with say they're hooked, and can't wait to come back with their family.
"None of us have ever gone ice skating except for my mom," says Kelsey Pyles, first time skater. "Hopefully they like it and don't get hurt too bad."
While it may take some time to draw a crowd, Center Ice's director says it's already a dream come true.
"I think the best part of it, it's like painting a picture and when it's all done you sit back and look at it, that's when you appreciate everything you put into it. It's just fun watching people have fun," says Rosmilso.
Center Ice hopes to have the pub and concession stands open by Christmas.
