MISHAWAKA — Country musician Steve Phillips is a man of many talents, but it’s his love for hometown community that shines at the new Michiana Roller Skating Rink.

Phillips is ready to open the doors to the rink on West Eighth Street in Mishawaka at 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16, and invites the public to come see — and skate — at this sparkling and spectacularly renovated new destination meant to become an asset for families, schools and the community.

“My passion was to see this old building transformed into the kind of safe, affordable family-friendly space that makes a real difference in Michiana’s quality of life,” Phillips said. “I know we all want that, so I took the passion and put it into action. Roller skating has enjoyed a return to popularity that some folks never left — in fact, the South Bend Roller Girls will be making this their new home — but we’re here to offer more activities and events in that community spirit.”

Inside, amid vivid colors and vibrant neon star décor, is a smooth 60-by-200-foot maple hardwood floor Phillips bills as the Midwest’s largest rink. The state of the art sound system and karaoke machine are designed so skaters can rock while they roll, but Phillips performs and loves classic country and gospel too.

“So there is a country welcome mat,” he explains, “and we want everyone to be at home in a respectful environment, from the children participating in special school awards or fundraising events, to our senior ladies playing bingo. This is a space for youth groups, birthday celebrations, and the fans who love to watch the South Bend Roller Girls matches and support their worthy causes.”

Giving back is another thing Phillips has in common with the Roller Girls. He lived and worked in real estate in the Philippines for years, and wants to continue supporting children’s nutrition and hunger relief programs there. That’s a key part of his vision for Michiana Roller Skating Rink, its dazzling glitter disco balls and music, all the arcade games–and the rink’s partner pizza shop, in the kitchen space reserved for Star-light Pizza. Star-light has a separate carry-out entrance, but no alcohol will be served in the rink itself unless it is related to a special event, Phillips said.

The rink also plans a Halloween Grand Opening to offer a safe, family-friendly alternative event, and invite ghosts and goblins, big and small.

For more information, check out the rink’s website at http://michianarollerskatingrink.com/