YLD to host fourth annual Skate-a-thon
By Hal D. Coffey
For The Lawyers Journal
Dec. 9, 2005—The Young Lawyers Division Skate-a-thon returns for its fourth year on Thursday, Feb. 9, 2006, downtown at The Rink at PPG Place. The annual YLD event has raised approximately $8,000 in its first three years. Hopes are high this year that participating skaters can raise more money than in any previous year.
Originally, the Skate-a-thon was started as an idea by then-YLD chair, Justin Goldstein (who has been the only skater to participate and raise funds in each of the first three years). In 2003, The Rink at PPG Place was a very new venue, providing downtown visitors and workers with a rare chance to be able to skate outdoors and downtown. From a modest beginning three years ago, the festivities, number of skaters, and sponsorship funds have continued to grow.
Unfortunately, each year, the Skate-a-thon seemed to be held on the coldest day of the year. In hopes of getting a little warmer conditions for our devoted skaters, the event has moved from January into February this year.
Each year, participants get colleagues, friends, and family to sign up to sponsor them for each lap skated or a single total pledge amount. In the past, we have seen a few skaters circumnavigate the Christmas tree in the middle of the rink more than 100 times! Mostly, people come to get a chance to see the rink and experience the beautiful atmosphere that accompanies the area.
As in the past, all proceeds from the event will go toward the Allegheny County Bar Foundation’s Attorney’s Against Hunger campaign as well as other YLD-supported charitable ventures. Sponsorship forms will be available on the ACBA website at www.acba.org along with sign-up information and other details. Registration will begin at 5:30 pm and the skating will start soon after.
This Fourth Annual Skate-a-thon will once again include free hot chocolate for all participants. Skaters will also again receive a discount on admission for the price of $5 per person. Skate rental is also available for $3 per pair.
Following this year’s skating, everyone is welcome to move across Market Square to Ciao Baby (435 Market Street) for reduced price drinks and hors d'oeuvres, for the second year in a row.
There will be prizes for the most laps skated and most sponsorship funds raised. In past years, we have given away gift certificates from downtown restaurants, local sporting goods stores, and downtown merchants.