SKATING: We have the Callahan Park ice rink to practice our ice skating spins.

In past decades, Bradfordians had other spots to lace up their skates, such as the Valley Hunt Club.

As the Jan. 3, 1936, edition of The Era states, “The ice skating rink of the Valley Hunt club located near Lewis Run is now being used by many members of the club and their guests. Cold weather of the past week has contributed to the good condition of the ice.”

The article explained some of the recent improvements to the facility.

“The rink has been enlarged and squared off for regulation hockey, with exhibition games an object of those who are in charge of the rink. A shelter house will be constructed and large fireplaces built for the use of skaters, it is announced by the club. Additional water connections have been added to allow for spraying the enlarged rink.

“Flood lights have been installed and loud speaker equipment soon will be placed at the rink.”

WINTER UPDATE: We’re a month ahead of the shortest day. The days are getting longer and will soon be getting warmer.

Today, daytime will last for 9 hours, 38 minutes and 40 seconds, while on the winter solstice, daylight lasted for 9 hours, 7 minutes and 21 seconds.

The days should start getting warmer, too.

On average, the lowest temperatures in Bradford are Jan. 11-21, with an average of 29.9 degree (though this year has been much colder).

The average temperature on Jan. 22 jumps to a solid 30 degrees.

Ok, it’s not a big jump. But each day is one day closer to spring. Think warm thoughts.

The average low doesn’t increase until Feb. 3, when it rises from 11.7 to 11.8 degrees.

The actual forecast for this year from the National Weather Service is actually much higher than the average — a high of 42 degrees today and a low of 30 tonight. Not bad.