When we got word on July 1 that the skating rink had skidded to a stop that day, we weren’t surprised. We did wonder why it hadn’t happen sooner, but perhaps it had to stay open through the end of the fiscal year, which is June 30. No matter. Both Isle of Wight and Franklin governments had been looking to stop support for a reportedly underused facility, and no one can blame them.

As yet, there have been no public demonstrations, angry letters to the editor and the like demanding the place stay open. Perhaps the majority of people have also been ready for the proverbial disco ball to come down.

The question remains of what to do with it next?

Maybe both localities could collaborate on a different purpose, such as prepping the site for a new business that needs a building of just such a size, complete with the utilities. Now that Tom Elder has joined the county to lead its economic development, this could serve as a starter project.

In the meantime, we’d like to suggest that the site be open from time to time to show movies, such as was done in Windsor a couple of weeks ago. The county Parks and Recreation did a fine job of organizing and presenting the seasonal fun that one evening. We hope to see that continue in Windsor and in the most southern part of Isle of Wight.

Such an activity brings families together for wholesome and affordable fun that’s sometimes difficult to come by anywhere.

But if you’ve got a better idea, let your county or city officials know.