This date in Indianapolis hockey history: April 25

The Ice become the first -- and as of 2014, only -- road team to win a game in Dubuque in 2012, Brad Lauer's two goals can't prevent an Ice loss in 1993, the Checkers close an era in 1987, and the Racers' Reggie Thomas has a three-point night in 1977. Rick Barkovich and Dominic Panetta celebrate birthdays.  

Today in history: April 25

1987: An era ends, as the Fort Wayne Komets oust the Checkers from the CHL Playoffs with a 3-1 victory, ending the series at 4-2. Brian McKee scores an unassisted goal with 3:47 left to net the only goal of the night and the final one for the team. Mike Zanier plays admirably, stopping 25 shots in the loss. A year later, the Checkers franchise would be purchased by Horn Chen and renamed the Ice, beginning a period of (so far) 23 consecutive years of hockey in Indianapolis under the Ice nickname. 

Birthdays

Rick Barkovich: Played 78 games and was the fourth-leading scorer on the inaugural Ice team in 1988-89. He had 32 goals and 35 assists, coming in behind Ron Handy, Brent Sapergia and Bob Lakso in both goals and points on that initial Ice team. It was Rick's second pro season -- he had spent the previous year in Salt Lake -- and he would play eight more seasons in the IHL, AHL and ECHL. A native of Hamilton, Ontario, he is 47. 

Dominic Panetta: Ice forward this past season who tallied three assists. Acquired on Dec. 21 in a trade from Tri-City, Panetta played 21 games for the Ice and 18 for the Storm this year. He is committed to play for Ferris State University next season. A native of Baldwin, Mich., he is celebrating his 20th birthday today.