The new business, scheduled to open this spring, will be called Skate N Play, Ellison said, adding he has big plans for the building. It will not only house the skating rink, but will also have two indoor play areas — one for toddlers and one for older children.
In addition to typical services for such a business including birthday packages and all-night skates, Ellison plans to add a stage for live music. Pool tables and some arcade games will also be available.
Ellison said his business will be a “nice safe place,” not something like a “night club.” He has high expectations for his staff and plans to have a security guard on the premises.
“We’re going to make it more family-oriented,” he said. “Before it was mainly teenagers.”
Ellison said that before the rink closed, teenagers would find their way there to hang out. He wants that pattern to change.
“We want mommas and daddies to help baby-sit these kids,” he said. “Now they have to go mainly to Fort Oglethorpe or Chattanooga to any of the places to have parties.
“We want a family center, not a teenage hangout,” he said.
Ellison said he is still working on items the concession stand will sell. Pizza and popcorn will be among the items with other healthier wares on the menu. He doesn’t want families to feel like they need to eat before they come to get a decent meal. Foods will be baked in ovens rather than fried.
“We’re not even going to have a deep fryer,” he said.
The 24,000-square-foot building probably won’t be limited to roller skating, Ellison said. He hopes to use the facility for anything from auctions to concerts.
One of Ellison’s ideas is to have a senior citizen night with activities such as bingo and square dancing.
Ellison has more options for the business. He bought the adjoining 15 acres in case he is able to further develop the business.
“It’s not going to happen right now but there are plans in the works to make an outside park,” he said. The park may include miniature golf, batting cages and maybe even water slides.
Pricing and hours of operation aren’t set yet, marketing director Renea Dearing said. She and Ellison are visiting similar businesses to see how they operate.
Skate N Play
1951 Ga. 136
P.O. Box 806
LaFayette, 30728
(706) 638-1419
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