1990s-themed Neptune Skating delays Ogden opening until January | News, Sports, Jobs

Deborah Wilber, Standard-Examiner

OGDEN — Skate fans will have to wait a bit longer for an old-school night out on the rink. Neptune Skating owner Kris Operhal wanted to open his 1990 roller rink the day after Christmas, on Sunday, but his vision to replicate the former Classic Skate of Riverdale requires specific amenities and details.

In an effort to stick to his vision, Operhal is delaying the rink’s opening until next month. He said it wouldn’t feel right to open without everything in place, therefore the new opening is planned for Jan. 21.

Operhal expects a packed house opening day and everyday thereafter as the venue will be the only place offering vintage 1990s vibes for the modern customer. Specifically, he’s worked to replicate the hardwood floors, iconic carpeting and disco balls that defined recreation for a generation.

Packing in 700 people every day may seem like a bit of an overreach, but Operhal said he is optimistic given the low costs.

Skate prices range from $1 on Dollar Skate Night to $20 on family night. All prices include renting a pair of skates.

Deborah Wilber, Standard-Examiner

Operhal, who worked as a DJ at Classics until it closed in 2003, said he was forced to pay high prices to skate at places like the Family Fun Center in Layton, which, he felt, lacked the atmosphere of old-school rinks he had grown to love.

Operhal is not alone in his love for rolling skating and deepest desires to see it return to the community.

A handful of Operhal’s former coworkers at Classics are along with him for the ride, having worked since April to transform the building into what they so fondly remember from their younger days.

“We’re passing it on to the next generation,” Operhal said.