My name is Connor Spence and I am the CEO & Founder of NorCal Ice, a San Rafael-based community ice rink that, for the past 9 years, has served as a recreational hub for North Bay community members for winter festivities and fun in Marin County.

After a year-long hiatus precipitated by the COVID-19 virus and its variants, my team and I are grateful to announce that NorCal Ice is returning to Northgate Mall for the 2021-2022 winter season with some exciting new developments.

As the impact of climate change becomes more pervasive, evidenced by cases such as the chronic drought in California, we have decided to replace our traditional model of operations in order to embrace a more sustainable one by investing in synthetic ice. Synthetic ice rinks are made from a recyclable polyethylene that requires zero water and does not require a chiller to operate, which not only reduces our carbon footprint but also increases our ability to stay open for our community members, rain or shine! Our seasonal facility will house 2,886 sq ft of skateable surface within the old Tilly’s storefront at Northgate Mall wherein we plan to host private events for our community members in tandem with our typical day-to-day services.

Due to the unanticipated year long closure due to COVID-19, we have limited funds to run the rink this season.We are fundraising to gather the starting funds necessary in order to construct our seasonal synthetic rink. The funds raised will be used to buy building materials, pay for staff wages, and to afford the required permits necessary to provide the community of San Rafael with a fun seasonal activity. Your donations would allow us to maintain this fun and safe environment for many families to enjoy for years to come.

We thank you for your continued support and we hope to see you at our new facility in November! If you are unable to donate, spreading the word about our fundraising campaign is also helpful toward our efforts!