 Another sign that the Christmas season is near is the city of Bemidji's outdoor hockey and pleasure rinks have officially opened. People were anxious to hit the ice at City Park today as the rink opened this afternoon. Both rinks at City and Nymore parks have now opened just in time for Christmas break. The rinks almost opened a few weeks ago but the warmer temperatures kept that from happening. General goal is always get them open before Christmas break because we know that's going to be the busiest time and we did that unfortunately. We were hoping to be open earlier because we know people are really excited to get out and do some skating but they're being used anyways and that was good to see and I know people are excited so we're glad we could get them open. Bemidji's outdoor rinks are open weekdays, 3.30 until 9 and weekends, noon until 8. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.