Every community has places that become part of its story.

They're the places where children learn to skate, families gather on weekends, lifelong friendships begin, and traditions are passed from one generation to the next. For Batavia, New York, the David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena is one of those places.

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Emily Carlson sits down with Executive Director Kati Murray for a conversation about much more than hockey. Together, they explore how the arena has become a cornerstone of the community where youth sports, public skating, special events, and everyday moments bring people together. It's a reminder that some of the most important buildings in our hometowns aren't defined by bricks and mortar, but by the memories created inside them.

Their conversation also reflects on the nostalgia so many Batavians feel for places like Skate 98, where generations of families spent countless hours together. While those places may change over time, the need for spaces that foster connection never disappears. The David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena carries that tradition forward, creating new memories while honoring those that came before.

As Batavia continues to grow, the discussion turns to something even larger: reinvestment and revitalization. Communities thrive when people believe in them enough to preserve their history while building for the future. From ongoing improvements at the arena to the excitement surrounding neighboring development, this episode highlights how thoughtful investment can strengthen an entire downtown and inspire pride in the place we call home.

Whether you grew up in Batavia or in a small-town hundreds of miles away, you'll likely recognize the story. Every community has a place that brings people together. Every community has people willing to invest their time, talent, and resources to ensure the next generation experiences the same sense of belonging.

This conversation is a celebration of those people. It's about preserving the places that shaped us, embracing opportunities to revitalize our communities, and remembering that the strongest hometowns are built when neighbors choose to invest in one another.

Thank you for listening to Powered by Authenticity, where every conversation reminds us that communities are built one relationship, one investment, and one authentic story at a time.

Thank you, Kati for spending time with us and sharing the upcoming events and fun activities occurring at the David McCarthy Arena. Also, thank you to the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce for continuing to support the highlighted shows and businesses in our community.