My son has been skating at the Castle almost every weekend for 6 years.  It's one of the few things he loves to do with his friends. Many of them have been skating there just as long. Some much longer. Skating is something they are all passionate about. We live in an area where there are few options for the youth to enjoy themselves in a safe environment. Skating is also one of the best options available to be physically active and social. If the skate rink was to close it would be a big loss to my son and his friends, as well as to the community in general. The skating rink is poised to be replaced in the spring with "InflataPark," an indoor obstacle course and bounce place. Although this is in some ways an exciting new option, we do not see it as inspiring the same sense of community as the skating rink. We are grateful to the owner of The Castle Fun Center, Brian Leentjes, and all the employees over the years that have enabled the rink to be what it is has been for us; a place to laugh, learn new tricks, dance and most importantly, to be together with friends. With all the ups and downs that childhood can bring, skating at the Castle has always been something my son could look forward to. Something that has kept him upbeat and excited about life. I know it holds the same sentiment to many others as well. That being said we are humbly asking for your help in signing this petition to keep the skating rink open.