This week would have been the 85th anniversary of the Coliseum in North Lake Park, OH on the city's west side. Instead, demolition of the once popular roller rink will begin.

The rink was heavily damaged in a May 2, 2005, arson. The original damage estimate was $1.5 million, but losses including equipment since have been pegged at $2.5 million, co-owner Heidi Wyrick said.

"The damage was so extensive, we have to tear it down," she said.
Chuck and Heidi Wyrick had taken over the family business about five years ago, representing the third generation of the family to be involved in running of the rink.

"Chuck worked there his whole life," Heidi said. "It's always been a family business and kept the family very close."

Months before the fire, the couple had started training their children to run the business. Its loss has been devastating, not just financially, but emotionally.

Although Chuck is still bitter and angry about the fire, the Wyricks said they know how much good the skating rink did for the community.

"We were able to touch so many people's lives," Heidi said. "It was a place where people could go, be safe and not be in front of the TV or video games."
The Coliseum was a community staple. From birthday parties to holidays, the roller rink was a wholesome source of family entertainment for all ages.

Area black churches held holiday skating parties for the community on Thanksgiving and Christmas evenings. People came to see what new outfits people had on and just to socialize. They were events held in a fun, supportive atmosphere that, 18 months later, is still missed.

Chuck's dad, Art Denis, was a chameleon in the skating rink, changing jobs throughout the night. He took your money, got your skates, listened to song requests and played them and even helped his wife, Jean, run the snack bar, which served up greasy squares of pizza and cold pop.

It's all just a memory now.

"It's not financially feasible (for us) to rebuild it," Heidi said of the Coliseum, which she expects to be leveled by a demolition company this week.

But she doesn't discount the possibility entirely. "We're not saying we would never rebuild it. It's not a forever answer."