Lewiston Event Center announces change in ownership

The Lewiston Event Center has shared news of a change in leadership.

“With both heavy hearts and warm hearts, we want to share some exciting news with our amazing community,” it posted Friday. “After 12 incredible years, the Simon and Hibbard families have made the decision to sell the Lewiston Event Center. While it is bittersweet to close one chapter, we couldn't be more excited for the next one.

“We have complete confidence in Mike Carella and Family and are truly excited to watch them continue to grow this incredible business and strengthen the community that has made it so special.

“Most importantly, we want to say THANK YOU. To every customer, league bowler, birthday party guest, family who joined us for Family Nights, everyone who packed the house for Bills games, Bowling with Santa, fundraisers, special events, and every memory made over the years, thank you. Your support, friendships, and loyalty have meant more to us than words can express. You are the reason these last 12 years have been so unforgettable.

“We also want to reassure everyone that it's business as usual! This (Facebook) page will continue to stay active with updates for the 2027 season. If you're on a bowling league, it will continue, and If you've already booked or discussed a birthday party or event, it is absolutely still happening

“And yes... the amazing staff you've come to know and love will still be here!

“We ask that you continue to support the Lewiston Event Center as you always have. The future is bright, and we can't wait to see what this next chapter brings.

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for allowing our families to be a part of so many of your memories. We are forever grateful and will always cherish the friendships and community we've built together.

“Here's to the next chapter!”

Lewiston Event Center file photos.

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Emery Simon and Harold Hibbard purchased the former Frontier Lanes in 2012. In 2021, Simon announced an intent to sell the property at 845 Cayuga St.

“It's time for younger blood,” Simon said Friday. “You know, we're trying to slow down – and we're excited that he's going to take it to the next level.”

Carella operated the Hyde Park Ice Pavilion in Niagara Falls for more than a decade.

“I think Harold and I have given him a good head start,” Simon said. “We're still going to be helping him, and we're going to keep the same staff. … He’s going to keep it the same – he’s just going to make it better.”

“It's a good thing,” Simon said of the transition. “I'm getting to the point where I want to retire. I'm trying to relocate to Florida. I'm trying to enjoy life a little bit more. I feel good that we've got a good start on that business. We've prospered there. We've grown the business. It's come a long ways from where it was. … We hope that Mike continues on in that journey.”

Over the course of almost 15 years, Simon and Hibbard made extensive changes to the LEC property, starting with new LED lighting and a security camera system, and following with new roofing, ceilings, carpet, plumbing and HVAC. They also put in a larger bar and a virtual game room, enhanced the food offerings, revamped the bowling lanes – and welcomed Lewiston-Porter student athletes back to use the facility.

“We've put a lot of money into it, and a lot of sweat and tears into it,” Simon said in 2021.

“We believed that the community needs a community event center,” he added.

The LEC is closed for the summer. A sign on the door notes an expected reopening in mid-September

Lewiston Event Center file photos.

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Simon previously operated the Lewiston Stone House, at 755 Center St. Earlier this year, he leased the property to the Olcott Lobster Company.

“The tenant's doing exceptionally well,” Simon said.

He also has an interest in the business at the back of his property – behind the restaurant – the aptly named Lewiston Stoned House dispensary.

“(It’s) good. Things are picking up slowly,” Simon said. “The word is slowly getting out there. Each week is a little better than the last. I can’t argue with anything there.”

GM/Managing Editor Joshua Maloni contributed to this report and took the photos.