‘Holiday Shop N Roll’ Takes Over Earl Warren

When winter rolls around, many people think of ice skating, but one group is trying to change that.

It’s time to dust off those roller skates or blades and hit the floor gliding, because you won’t find any ice at the Earl Warren Showgrounds.

“Ice skating is not sustainable at all. Coming to a place like Santa Barbara in the dead of winter when it’s 75 degrees and trying to make an ice skating rink takes a lot of energy. So we wanted to do something that didn’t take a tax on the environment and was fun and hip and something unique,” said Katie Falbo, a Shop N Roll organizer.

The weeklong event benefits the Center for Sustainability at Santa Barbara City College.

“We’re in California. What is it outside today? 75 degrees. We don’t need ice and snow. That’s now why we’re here,” said David Miles Jr., of Church of 8 Wheels.

Miles, also known as the Godfather of Skate, along with other members of the Church of 8 Wheels, is in Santa Barbara from the Bay Area.

If you’re a beginner or just getting back into skating, you’re in good hands.

“Anytime we see anybody that’s having any trouble, we’re going to help them. We’re certified instructors with the skate instructor association. So we have certification, we have techniques, we’re here to help people,” said Miles.

Cheryl Dunn is part of the group. She got back into skating nearly seven years ago after watching television.

“There was a commercial with a lady skating around and I’m like, ‘Oh my God, I remember doing that,'” she said.

“You know anybody, any part of the family can do this and get everybody out to enjoy themselves and have a good time and that’s what we encourage whenever we do our line dances,” said Daniel Albert, a Church of 8 Wheels member.

The Holiday Shop N Roll goes until Sunday. Admission is $10 for kids and $12 for adults. There is a $2 discount for people who bring their own skates.