Community petition hopes to save Panorama City ice rink slated for demolition
San Fernando Valley families hope a community petition saves Panorama City's LA Kings Valley Ice Center before it's demolished in a month.
"We all kind of wondered if it was a joke. Pretty cruel joke to play on anybody," said Abbey Wall, a parent who also sits on the board of the hockey rink. "As the reality of that sunk in, it's heartbreaking."
The California Heat, a hockey team at the rink, created the petition, pleading with local leaders and philanthropists for help after the facility's general manager announced that the center would be demolished on May 1.
"We are calling on local government officials, community leaders, and philanthropists to come together to explore alternative solutions. The demolition doesn't have to mean the end of this community haven," the team wrote. "We ask for investment in renovation, relocation, or the preservation of this vital youth sports center."
Mother Amy Feder described the hockey rink as a seminal community space, the place where her son learned how to skate before joining the Heat.
"His story isn't unique. This rink has quietly shaped countless young athletes and families over the years and become part of their daily lives," Feder wrote.
Wall added that the Heat had just started its spring program, with players at many different ages coming out to try out for the team. She said many parents echoed Feder's sentiments, with many calling her to share their frustrations and, at times, crying.
"Because for us, this isn't just a hockey program," Wall said. "This is our community. Many of us are here from five to seven days a week, letting our kids skate, train and pursue their passions. When our kids find something that they are passionate about, we as parents tend to make everything possible for them."
Wall added that her three children and their friends began crying when they learned about the demolition.
"I'm just bummed because I played my first game here, won my first championship with the league and made some of my best friends for life," said Abram, Wall's son. "It's a lot."
The petition has received more than 5,600 signatures as of Tuesday night. Abram hopes the petition saves the rink.
"That's really all I could hope for," he said.
