Years ago, there were roller skating rinks in Ferndale, Birch Bay, the Bellingham Armory, and elsewhere in Whatcom County. Now there's one: Lynden Skateway.
The rink in downtown Lynden was built in 1946. Pete and Brenda VanOrnum bought the business, which included bowling lanes, in 1976, and rebuilt it, without bowling, after fire destroyed the building in 1994.
The VanOrnums are still involved in the operation, and daughter Terri Johnson is the manager.
"It's not just a business, it's a family thing," Brenda VanOrnum says. "Roller skating has been my love since I was a little girl."
The rink offers lessons and is home to a speed skating club and an artistic club, for skaters perfecting their jumps, spins and other fancy moves. People rent the rink, too, whether for practices by the Bellingham Roller Betties or for private lessons, roller hockey, or social outings by schools, churches and other groups.
For many people, public skating remains the big draw. Public skating hours are 7 to 10 p.m. Fridays, 1 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 10 p.m. Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays, with extra hours during Christmas and other holidays.
Admission for public skating ranges from $4.50 for kids to $7.50 for adults, but can be less depending on the day and time. Admission includes skate rental. In-line skates are $2 extra.
People can buy new or used skates at the rink, and can bring their own skates to use, provided the skates are clean and in good condition, so they won't mar the floor.
The speed and fun of roller skating have remained constant through the years, and the modest cost is especially appealing at a time when families are watching their budgets, VanOrnum says.
"When the economy is bad, skating does well," she says. "Skating is making a comeback."
THE BASICS Lynden Skateway 421 Judson St. Phone: 360-354-3851 Online: skateway.org
