Defrost your heart at Clark Park's annual Valentine's Day skate

 
This year's mild winter has been a welcome reprieve for most Detroiters, who for the past two years have had to contend with frigid temperatures and record snows. But this Sunday, organizers of Cold Hearted, an annual Valentine's Day benefit for the Clark Park Coalition, are hoping that uncharacteristically warm temperatures have put you in the mood for some classic winter fun – an outdoor skate at Clark Park in southwest Detroit's historic Hubbard Farms neighborhood.
 
Last year's skate was cancelled due to frigid temperatures, and the fundraiser was moved indoors to Our/Detroit Vodka. But the forecast for this year's event, which takes place Sunday, Feb. 14, from 6-9 p.m., is a much more bearable (dare we say invigorating?) 20 degrees.
 
Now in its 6^th year, Cold Hearted invites people of all skill levels to skate Detroit's only NHL-sized outdoor hockey rink, which is located in the heart of beautiful Clark Park. Whether you're looking to spend Valentine's Day with a longtime partner, a new special somebody, or among friends, the annual skate offers something for everybody. "Whatever relationship status or structure you happen to be in, you'll have a good time at Cold Hearted," says Rachel Perschetz, a resident of Hubbard Farms who helps organize the event. "It's a great way to spend Valentine's Day – for couples, friends, families – and help Clark Park. If you've never checked out the park before, it's a great chance to do so."
 
And it won't set you back. The event costs just $10 per person, and that includes skate rental and beverages to keep you warm. Food – possibly from a local food truck – will be available for sale. A DJ will spin records to keep you moving around the rink, and a heated station will be open for you to put on skates or just hang out and keep warm. All proceeds will benefit the Clark Park Coalition, a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit.
 
Founded in 1991 as grassroots response from neighbors to cuts to the programming and maintenance of city parks, the Clark Park Coalition is one of Detroit's most celebrated community organizations, offering programs that include youth and adult sports leagues, after school tutoring for children, and even a popular photojournalism class. The money raised on Sunday will support those programs directly. In its 6-year history, Cold Hearted has raised over $5,000.

Cold Hearted takes place this Sunday, Feb. 14, from 6-9 p.m. at Clark Park's ice rink, which is located at 1130 Clark St. The event costs $10 per person, which includes skate rental. All money raised will benefit the Clark Park Coalition. For more information, click here.

Matthew Lewis is Model D's managing editor. Follow him on Twitter @matthewjlew.

Photos by Marvin Shaouni.