On Friday, October 25, Monarchs star Yolanda Griffith joined Mayor Heather Fargo, County Supervisor Roger Dickinson and the Downtown Partnership in celebrating this year's opening of the Downtown Ice Rink. The ribbon cutting marked the 12th year the ice rink has been open for the public to enjoy. Located at St. Rose of Lima Park near 7th and K Streets, it is the only outdoor ice rink in the Sacramento region. The 5,100 square-foot rink received some improvements this year including new facades featuring recognizable downtown landmarks, reinforced walls and wooden benches for those skaters that need a rest.

Griffith spent time lacing up skates for students from Bret Harte Elementary and signing autographs for fans. Mayor Heather Fargo and County Supervisor Roger Dickinson addressed the crowd before officially opening it to the public. Performances from local skaters added both art and sport to the festivities. More than 200,000 people will skate at the rink this season. For information on hours of operation and admission fees, visit www.downtownsac.org.