How was your business started?
The Anoka Area Ice Arena Association started business
in 1981 by the Anoka Area Hockey Association. There was
a steering committee formed to explore the feasibility
of an indoor ice arena for their association. The
original building was built with volunteer labor and
most materials were donated. The only part that was
financed was the steal structure and the refrigeration
plant. There was a pledge drive by the membership to
cover all the other costs. Construction was started in
July of 1981 and was completed in November of 1981.
Who started the business and why?
The Anoka Area Hockey Association did because it was
determined by the feasibility study that they could
support an Indoor Ice Arena.
Was this the first and last location of your
business or were there more?
There were several other locations considered. The
actual location was chosen because of its central
location to the communities that the arena would serve.
What are some of the changes that have made your
business grow?
Added a second sheet when the needs of the
Association grew. Added artificial turf to run indoor
soccer programs when hockey was not in season. Added a
Pro Shop to service needs of customers.
What were some of the big successes and failures
in the business history?
Being able to be debt free in 3 years as well as
provide a service to the community and be totally self
supportive. No tax dollars have ever been put into the
building. Able to add a second sheet of ice after 10
years of business. Always has been a demand for the
service we provide so there hasn’t been any significant
failures.
How did these effect your business?
The successes gave us an opportunity to expand and
serve the Hockey Community as they grew.
What are some of the dates important to the
business’ history?
Dates opened 11/22/81
Paid off 03/83
Added on a second sheet of ice 12/14/91
Indoor Soccer 03/93
What are some of the improvements in the company’s
history?
Added second sheet of ice, added meeting rooms,
pro-shop and locker rooms.
Who are the most important people in this company?
An elected Board of Directors provides
leadership and strategic direction to the Arena based on
the Arena's mission.
The Anoka Area Ice Arena Board of Directors
operates from a governance position, with a distinct
focus on the direction and growth of the Arena in
partnership with the staff. All paid staff is very
important because they reflect the success and image of
the company.
Copyright ©2010
Anoka Area Ice Arena, Inc. All rights reserved
Web site by Bob Erickson
