Free summer bowling program returns

Editor's note: Joseph Jones is a Register correspondent representing vermiliondaily.com. VERMILION — A national program offering free bowling for kids is back this summer at Lake Erie Lanes, giving families a low-cost way to stay active while school is out. The Kids Bowl Free program allows children to bowl up to two free games per day throughout the summer season. The program runs through August with specific days and times available through the bowling center. Parents who want to bowl alongside their children can purchase a family pass for a one-time fee of about $49, which covers the full season. Shoe rental is not included. Families can register for the program by visiting kidsbowlfree.com or by scanning the QR code available at Lake Erie Lanes, 4523 Liberty Ave. (U.S. 6), Vermilion. Keeping kids active Sandy and Brian Piwinski, who took ownership of the Vermilion bowling alley about a year ago, said the program is aimed at bringing families through the doors and giving kids something active to do during the summer months. "The goal is to get kids back on the lanes and give families something to do together," Sandy said. The couple said they saw strong participation when they joined the program late last year and made a point to get signed up earlier this season. In addition to the free bowling program, Lake Erie Lanes offers open bowling, leagues and other events throughout the summer. The facility also includes a full kitchen, a pro shop and a virtual golf simulator. Sandy said the program is one piece of a larger effort to rebuild interest in the longtime local bowling alley. "It was an uphill climb," she said. "We're fixing things that have been neglected over the years." Despite the challenges, she said the response from the community has been encouraging. "Business has been really good. We've had a lot of support from the community," she said.