The Lapeer Area Sports and Entertainment Rink, formerly known as the Lapeer Skating Center, has a rich history dating back to its construction in 1972 by Mr. and Mrs. Healey. Over the decades, this venue has become a cherished staple of the community, especially for those who grew up enjoying the thrill of skating, laughter, and the friendships formed on the rink floor. It has long been a gathering place for families, friends, and school groups, hosting countless events and creating memories that have endured through generations.
The current owner, George "Ed" Buys, has deep personal ties to the rink. As a child in the 1980s, George worked for the Healeys and spent countless hours skating there, just like many local residents who found joy in the rink’s vibrant atmosphere. His passion for the rink and the Lapeer community runs deep. After graduating, George pursued various business ventures, including owning Exec-u-Tan, Tropi-Tan, Staggers Pub, and the DJ service Music Goes Around Productions—all of which reflect his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the local area.
In 2017, George decided to revisit the rink with his children, eager to share the special experience he had enjoyed as a child. To his dismay, he found the facility in significant disrepair. Determined to preserve this iconic piece of Lapeer’s history, George reached out to the Healeys and purchased the rink in September of that year, committing himself fully to its revitalization.
To help bring his vision to life, George assembled a passionate new team, including Haley McKenzie, who began her journey at the rink as a snack bar and admission attendant. Over the past seven years, Haley has risen through the ranks to become the General Manager and Marketing Director, driven by her own deep connection to the rink, which she too frequented as a child. Her dedication and hard work have been instrumental in transforming the facility into what it is today.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, George and Haley used the temporary closure as an opportunity to embark on an ambitious remodeling effort. The renovations included adding an entirely new wing to the building, relocating and upgrading the skate room, expanding the snack bar to offer more variety, introducing new arcade games, and replacing the facility’s carpeting. These updates gave the rink a fresh, modern feel while preserving its nostalgic charm. Their goal was clear: to breathe new life into the rink and create a space that future generations could enjoy as much as they had.
Since reopening as Laser Skating, the rink has evolved into a versatile event space that caters to a wide range of community needs. It now hosts birthday parties, fundraisers, sports banquets, graduation celebrations, engagement parties, all-night skates, open skating sessions, corporate events, and more. Its flexibility and welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect venue for gatherings of all kinds, ensuring it remains a hub of activity and enjoyment for Lapeer residents.
George and Haley’s vision for the Lapeer Area Sports and Entertainment Rink goes beyond simply providing a place to skate. They are dedicated to fostering a vibrant community space where people of all ages can come together to celebrate and create lasting memories. Through their passion and commitment, they are ensuring the rink remains a cherished part of Lapeer’s culture—a place where the spirit of fun, friendship, and community continues to thrive for years to come.
