A long-running recreation business in DeLand will be closing this month after over seven decades across multiple ownership groups. The Rink, a skating rink located on North Spring Garden Ave just past Greens Dairy Road, will have its final day of business on Sunday, October 27th.
According to the business' owners, the property owners are choosing to no longer lease the location to The Rink and instead are selling it to a buyer who plans to convert it into a storage unit facility. Still, the owners are asking their patrons not to direct their anger to the new owners. They called the sudden end 'heartbreaking', and received an outpouring of support from the community.
The Rink opened in 1953, existing continuously for 71 years as a community classic for skating aficianados and young learners alike. A 'Farewell Wednesday' event will be held on October 23rd, where The Rink will be holding its final adult skating night from 8:30 pm to 11:00 pm. Entertainment will be provided by DJ Mayhem.
"We want to thank our local community for supporting our family-run business for 10 great years," the owners said. "We loved every minute of it. We will be looking for alternative locations to return to the area, as we know this was one of the only activities for kids in DeLand, and we hate to see it ripped away like this."
This statement, however hopeful, was deleted from the business' page according to reporting by The West Volusia Beacon. The page still has several other posts confirming their impending closure.