A Crown Heights roller-skating rink announced it is closing its doors, much to the disappointment of area residents. Many residents say they can?t imagine Crown Heights without the Empire Roller Rink, which is set to close by the end of April. However, the owner says with rising insurance costs, it became harder and harder to make a profit. He also says he was pressured to end certain specialty nights after a shooting at the rink in January. Residents say the rink, which is the last of its kind in Brooklyn, will be greatly missed. A group called Project Save Empire plans to hold a rally at the facility on March 24, beginning at 11 a.m.

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