For Immediate Release: November 21, 2006

Contact: Vanessa Gulati

617-626-1119

STATE ANNOUNCES START OF PUBLIC SKATING SEASON

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) today announced that all DCR skating rinks will open for public skating on Friday, November 24, 2006. Skating lessons, taught by the Bay State Skating School, will also be available at many facilities.

Kelly Outdoor Rink in Jamaica Plain will open for public skating in mid-December, weather permitting.

DCR rinks have also already opened for rental use. Ice time can be reserved for hockey leagues, ice skating programs, and special events. For more information, including hours of operation and contact information, visit the ice skating page on DCR’s website: http://www.mass.gov/dcr/recreate/skating.htm.

DCR owns 43 skating rinks throughout the Commonwealth, an important element of its mission to provide healthy recreation opportunities for the citizens of Massachusetts. The rinks are an integral part of the communities they serve, catering to skaters of all ages and abilities, from competitive youth hockey to beginners to families.

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