Iceland Skating Rink has partnered with Children's Sport Connection to offer Long Island parents another opportunity to reinforce one of the many valuable life lessons learned through teamwork. Parents and their junior athletes will be able to donate outgrown used sporting goods in usable conditions to CSC, so that these items may be matched up with needy athletes whose families are in crisis.

January 27 - January 28 CSC Collection Days

Iceland will launch its first CSC collection days to coincide with the final weekend of National Skating Month, Jan. 27 and Jan 28. Parents and athletes may drop off sports equipment at any time during the public skating sessions. The weekend's activities include free figure skating exhibitions, free raffle prizes and an opportunity on the children's public sessions to skate with Spiderman. Iceland Skating Rink is located at 3345 Hillside Avenue (corner of Herricks Road) in New Hyde Park. Call 746-1100 or log onto www.icelandli.com for public skating schedules and special event news.

The mission of Children's Sport Connection is to provide financial assistance so that these children can continue to benefit, both physically and emotionally, from an uninterrupted and active involvement in their chosen sport. CSC evaluates such families and, in turn, awards grants to be used toward community league registrations, equipment, lessons and other-related costs of participation for eligible students. Studies show that a healthy active lifestyle is a vital outlet for these children and lessens the negative impact of a family crisis. Through consistent interaction with coaches, teammates and other participating families, these young athletes are able to continue to build their self-esteem and lay the groundwork for becoming responsible, well-rounded adults. To find out more about the Children's Sport Connection, visit www.cscny.org.