An Historic Fixture Reopened/Sportsman's Hall Roller Rink

I had a rental car on Sunday, and drove to Carroll County for a live in job interview. After taking highway exit to 30 N it didn't take me long to realize where I was. That's always comforting to realize that you aren't on completely new terrain. I immediately had fond memories of "Sportsman's Hall" roller rink. I first went there in '75 for a 7th grade field trip. I was in love with Sammy, but he didn't love me back, so I did not work up the guts to ask him to skate with me for the "ladie's choice" segment. (He ended up marrying his high school sweetheart and I think they are still together.)

When I first got my driver's license, it was one of the first places I drove to. In "Boring" Maryland! Near the Boring Church! You know the boring church! We've all been there! Anyway, Marlin told me about 3 years ago that they were shutting down permanently and it broke my heart.

I think they opened in the 20's but I'm not sure. A boy got kicked out in the 90's so he burned the place down. A year or more later they reopened. Business dropped significantly because of the reduced popularity of roller skating. Business closed. But Oila! They are open!

Yesterday my rental car started acting up about 5 miles from my job interview, just a hop and a skip (and a skate) away from Sportsman's Hall! I was panicked, but thought, "well if a girl has to break down she might as well break down near the roller rink!"

Stunningly, I had just passed it, and the sign was still intact! WHAT! THERE ARE TONS OF KIDS IN THERE! IT'S REOPENED, IT'S REOPENED!

That thrills me! SPORTSMAN'S HALL once won an award for best roller skating light show in the United States..........................

(Hmmm, I'll have to check and see if they have a website!)

Roller skating, anyone? ;)

(p.s. the rental car made a full recovery and I did not have to call for service!)