Maple Grove Gears Up for Skate Plaza Grand Opening

Skateboarders, spectators and community members can check out the newly renovated Maple Grove Skate Plaza during the Maple Grove Skate Plaza grand opening scheduled for 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, 2013 at the Skate Plaza, located near the Maple Grove Community Center.

Following the ribbon cutting, 3rd Lair will host the annual Summer Series Skate Board Contest. All skill levels welcome, registration accepted on site. More information: www.3rdlair.com or contact thilger@maplegrove.mn.gov

With the assistance for area skateboarders and Spohn Ranch Skateparks Inc., the Maple Grove Parks and Recreation Board designed a new park as a replacement to the former outdoor park. 

The new park is concrete and includes items such as banks, stairs, grind rails, mini taco, hubba ledges and manual pad, according to the city of Maple Grove website. The park includes a seating area as well for skateboarders and spectators. 

Other happenings the weekend of Aug. 3-4, 2013 in Maple Grove:

• The Osseo-Maple Grove Hockey Association hosts their free “Try Hockey” event for youth 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3 at the Maple Grove Community Center. Bring a hockey or bike helmet, gloves, sweatpants or snowpants and OMGHA will help young hockey players to try out hockey. A second “Try Hockey” event is scheduled 2:45 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21.

• Check out the annual Family Fest at the Fountains at Arbor Lakes 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3. Free activities for kids, including a petting zoo.

• The Law Enforcement Training Facility shooting range in Maple Grove is open to the public 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3 for use. Walk-ins only, no reservations at the range location at 11370 89th Avenue North. Lane rental rates apply.

• The Pierre Bottineau house will be open for viewing at Elm Creek Park Reserve 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3. Free for community members.

• Visit the great horned owl 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 4 at Elm Creek Park Reserve. Examine owl artifacts and hear their calls. Bring a camera for close-up shots for this free event. 

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