A sure sign that another hockey season is about to begin is ice installation day at Amalie Arena. I got to take a first-hand look at the process. I learned some pretty interesting stuff – like did you know the ice the Tampa Bay Lightning play on is only an inch and a quarter deep!?

• Felt good to be back in the arena!

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• So weird to walk in and see it this empty!

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• This machine is about half the size of the Zamboni. It first lays down water. Then white paint. Then more water.

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• It sprays the water and paint in a fine mist to keep the ice dense.

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• We can verify their claims… if the Lightning use it, it must be the good stuff.

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• This is what it looks like when the white paint layer goes on before it’s covered with more ice.

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• The logos are ready to come out and be put on the ice.

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• I think we need a few more of these. Especially the dark blue ones.

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• I’d imagine that Dunkin box is the most vital equipment.

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• Fortunately they didn’t leave the water on.

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• It was FREEZING in the arena… but I guess that’s the point.

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• In fact, they had to wait a couple days to get the arena cold enough after Rod Stewart’s concert.

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• The Zamboni will be able to make its first run tomorrow once everything has set.

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