The Ice was featured in the January issue of Leawood Lifestyle, "The Coolest Hot Spot in Town, The Ice at Park Place!"

From the article:

"It was an unseasonably warm Saturday in late November.  A large crowd had gathered at The Ice and the mood was festive. Skaters of all ages circled the ice, a few jamming to the music that filled the air.  Some people lunched at the rink-side tables and Santa wandered around greeting wide-eyed children.  An artist painted holiday symbols on little cheeks and foreheads.

It was the Grand Opening Celebration of The Ice at Park Place, located at 117th and Nall.  The event was the epitome of what the developers envisioned as they planned the area that has become known as "Leawood's Downtown."

"We wanted to create a space where the people of Leawood and surrounding communities could gather and enjoy one another and the many amenities Park Place has to offer," said Rebecca Garry, marketing director.  "The response has been extremely positive.  People are coming here to skate now, but in warmer weather this area becomes a park used for many entertainment and family events."

The Spencer  family, who moved to Leawood from Indiana just last year, was just one of many who came to the grand opening and took in all it had to offer.  Andy and Erin Spencer were joining in the festivities with their two young children, Luke (3) and Camille (1).

"We are having so much fun," Erin said.  "We just finished eating lunch at Ingredient, and, while my kids were too shy to talk to Santa, they've enjoyed watching the other kids do it!"  The Spencers then spent some time shopping at The Learning Tree before heading home for naps.  "We really enjoy coming here and think the trees and the architecture of the buildings make for a beautiful seetting."

According to Garry, nearly 20,000 skaters hit the ice last year and even more are expected this year.  There were more than 500 at the celebration alone.

"I think the ice rink plays a role in attracting people to Park Place," said Andre Sanders, manager of The Ice.  "It's the only outdoor ice rink in Johnson County and it's easy to get to.  Add that to the wonderful shops and eateries and there's something for everyone to enjoy."

Buy how do you turn a small park into an ice rink?  Clearly, someone planned ahead. 

According to Sanders, there is a permanent piping system under the grass.  Come November, when the temperatures start dipping below 50 degress, they begin laying a secondary series of tubes over the grass, the length and width of the rink.  A chilling system begins pumping cold liquid into the pipes.  "We lay down layer upon layer of ice until it's thick enough to skate on," Sanders said.  "It usually takes about a week or two, depending on how much the weather cooperates.  The walls go up and we're ready to open."

And what happens come spring?  "Well we just turn off the cooling system and let nature take its course.  If it's warm enough, the ice will melt in a few days."

Then the park takes on a whole new look, as grass starts to grow and plants and flowers bloom.  It continues to be the focal point of the development, serving as a community green space.  During warmer months, the area is filled with people enjoying the outdoors.

"Last year we had a lot of events that were very popular," said Garry.  "We had a move night and live music in the evenings."

Other popular events were the weeky Farmers Market and Flower Market, which will return bigger and better than ever. 

So, if you're a skater, be sure to get up to The Ice and take a few spins this winter.  And keep an eye out for the fun scheduled this spring.  There's sure to be something for everyone."