Downtown Farmington Ice Rink Fundraising Underway

From collection skates at the Farmington Farmers and Artisans Market to a jazz dinner, efforts are underway to raise funds for a new ice rink in downtown Farmington's Riley Park. 

A "cornerstone" donation of $100,000 made by the George F. Riley Foundation, as well as support from the City of Farmington and Farmington Downtown Development Authority (DDA), will allow for installation of the refrigerated ice rink this winter. However, officials say the total cost of construction, estimated at $300,000, will be covered as much as possible by additional private donations.

John Cowley & Sons has plans to host a fundraiser featuring local jazz drummer Jerry McKenzie on Sept. 28, during the downtown Farmington Harvest Moon celebration. McKenzie will perform with Dave Bennett on clarinet, Terry Lower on piano and Ray Tini on bass. 

The evening starts with cocktails at 5 p.m., a chef's special dinner at 6 p.m. and music at 7 p.m. Guests can secure a table in advance, by calling 248-474-5941, or at the door. Ten percent of all proceeds will be donated to the ice rink project. 

Wright-Beamer, a Farmington Hills-based law firm, has agreed to match employee contributions to the ice rink fund and encourages other local businesses to do the same. 

Also, look for volunteers with donation containers walking through the market at the Walter E. Sundquist Pavilion on Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.