CONTENTS
VOL 21.6
6 ISSUE AT HAND
42 FEATURE
The Metamorphosis
Build It and They Will Come
By Scott Frager
The Ak-Chin tribe in Maricopa, AZ, opens the Ultra-Star Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle. By Mark Miller
11 SHORTS • South Point Hotel and USBC announce Las Vegas plans. • QubicaAMF expands partnership with Bowltech. • Ohio proposes raising revenues through a “bowling tax.”
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50 WHAT BOWLING MEANS TO ME Transformative Powers Former pro bowler Wayne Webb and his wife Elaine transform not only a center, but an entire community with the power of bowling.
24 CENTER STAGE
32
66 REMEMBER WHEN 1947 Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer By Patty Heath
32 COVER STORY
56 Showcase 57 Datebook
Hail to the Chief!
58 Classifieds
In our exclusive interview, BPAA president Cathy DeSocio talks to IBI about her tenure, her beliefs and her vision for the future.
June 2013
holmes@bowlingindustry.com
OFFICE MANAGER Patty Heath heath@bowlingindustry.com
CONTRIBUTORS Patty Heath Anna Littles Mark Miller Jackie Wyckoff
ART DIRECTION & PRODUCTION Designworks www.dzynwrx.com (818) 735-9424
FOUNDER Allen Crown (1933-2002)
12655 Ventura Boulevard Studio City, CA 91604 (818) 789-2695(BOWL) Fax (818) 789-2812 info@bowlingindustry.com
HOTLINE: 888-424-2695
By Anna Littles
IBI
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Chris Holmes
www.BowlingIndustry.com
New York Holds a Secret Beneath Its Streets
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frager@bowlingindustry.com Skype: scottfrager
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jackie Fisher
By Anna Littles
By Jackie Wyckoff
PUBLISHER & EDITOR Scott Frager
fisher@bowlingindustry.com
Compiled by Patty Heath
Secret, forgotten lanes beneath the Frick Mansion in Manhattan have been renovated to their original glory.
THE WORLD'S ONLY MAGAZINE DEVOTED EXCLUSIVELY TO THE BUSINESS OF BOWLING
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SUBSCRIPTION RATES: One copy of International Bowling Industry is sent free to every bowling center, independently owned pro shop and collegiate bowling center in the U.S., and every military bowling center and pro shop worldwide. Publisher reserves the right to provide free subscriptions to those individuals who meet publication qualifications. Additional subscriptions may be purchased for delivery in the U.S. for $50 per year. Subscriptions for Canada and Mexico are $65 per year, all other foreign subscriptions are $80 per year. All foreign subscriptions should be paid in U.S. funds using International Money Orders. POSTMASTER: Please send new as well as old address to International Bowling Industry, 12655 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA 91604 USA. If possible, please furnish address mailing label. Printed in U.S.A. Copyright 2013, B2B Media, Inc. No part of this magazine may be reprinted without the publisher’s permission.
MEMBER AND/OR SUPPORTER OF:
THE ISSUE AT HAND
The Metamorphosis
Trying to sum up lessons learned from the five-day BPAA Bowling Center Management School in 500 words, or under, would be a huge disservice. I could consume a river of ink detailing the valuable and practical information (the real hard-core stuff one can sink his teeth into) presented and studied during the course. I would run out of pages before I could run out of affirmative words describing the interactive experiences of working in teams to solve real bowling-world issues relating to: human resources, food and beverage, group events, birthday parties, marketing, operational measurements, leadership and youth. To duly laud the team of instructors: Bart Burger, Kelly Bednar, Rick Heim, Beth Standlee and Sheri Owens would be so genuinely sugary that dentists would surely scoff at my comments.
Simply put, you would be fortunate and wise to attend the BPAA Bowling Center Management School. You would come away metamorphosed, just like a furry caterpillar transforms into an elegant butterfly. As much as I learned from the instructors, I learned an equal amount from my fellow students: Ken “Doc” Morris, Kelly and Valerie Lesher, Louie Atienza, Debbie Gill, Michael Budwick, Mike Connelly, Tammy Rivera, Jason Fradenburg, Eric Gray, Jim Plessinger, Carrie Huschke, Jimmy Wilson, J.R. Raymond and Kurt Crooks. We studied together, presented together, ate together, and enjoyed the bonding camaraderie of soldiers trying to fight our way through the bowling trenches. Frankly, this writer just isn’t good enough to appropriately express how transformative it was to meet and study with others from around the country who operate large centers, small centers, urban and rural centers, mature centers and those whose centers have yet to be built. So, I dedicate this column to all of the above and for all those willing to take a chance to break away from their businesses and bet that the BPAA Bowling Center Management School can, and will, help them grow personally and professionally. – SCOTT FRAGER, PUBLISHER AND EDITOR frager@bowlingindustry.com
THIS MONTH AT www.BowlingIndustry.com With over 2,000 members, we thought it was time to give a shout out to those who make up IBI Online! Introducing proprietor Randy Schwaiger who, with his brother Paul, has owned River City Bowl-A-Way in Napoleon, OH, since 1979. A true fan, he crowns his page with a photo of Dick Weber and sportscaster Chris Schenkel on either side of him at Bowl Expo, date unknown. Asked what his highest bowling score is, he modestly says,”300.” Wow! He walks the walk. Randy has participated in the Forum online and is a member of the Strike Ten Entertainment Group found on the home page. Asked what he enjoys most about IBI Online, he pointed to the center photos, especially the remodel work and retro centers. He is a strong advocate for promotion of nationally sponsored tournaments. Randy, thank you for supporting IBI Online! 6
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SHORTS
South Point Hotel and Casino, the USBC, Las Vegas Events (LVE), and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) announced a 12-year deal to host several annual USBC events. At the heart is a $30 million, 60-lane bowling tournament facility at South Point starting in 2013. Over the life of the agreement, USBC will host seven events including the USBC Women’s Championship in 2016, 2020 and 2022 and the USBC Open Championships in 2017, 1019, 2021 and 2023. There will also be more than 40 additional events some of which will be the USBC Masters, USBC Queens, USBC Senior Masters and USBC Team USA Trials. South Point Hotel, Casino & Spa overlooks the Las Vegas Strip offering 2,200 guestrooms; a world-class spa and salon; a 400-seat showroom; a 16-screen Cinemark movie complex; a 64-lane bowling center which currently hosts top professional and amateur events; and an arena and equestrian center. “This new bowling tournament facility we’re building with USBC will provide an unrivaled destination for bowling enthusiasts and add another dynamic element to attract visitors to South Point and Las Vegas,” said Michael Gaughan, owner
Rendering for the new South Point 60-lane event facility
of South Point. Along with the 60 lanes, plans call for a tournament registration area, bowler’s squad room and modern locker facilities. Ryan Growney, South Point general manager, said the new
In typical Vegas fashion, (men left to right) Ryan Growney, South Point GM; Stu Upson, USBC; Pat Christenson, LVE; and Rossi Ralenkotter, LVCVA, donned red-and-black USBC shirts to announce the deal.
bowling center is a good investment, because the USBC Open Championships should draw 80,000 bowlers plus guests, generating around $200 per person per day. Growney also pointed out that the ground floor of the two-story bowling center should be open in September 2014 and will also hold equestrian events and car shows. The center will have 500 seats for fans and will not be open for retail use; it will be an exclusive tournament venue. This commitment by Las Vegas will put the city on the road to becoming a major bowling events host. Reno, home to the National Bowling Stadium, a 350,000-square-foot bowling facility, will still host at least 10 tournaments through 2025, three more than Las Vegas. Ben McDonald of Reno-Sparks Convention Center does not feel that the new deal with Las Vegas will impact Northern Nevada’s bowling events. “It is not uncommon for the USBC to move their events around every year so (the Las Vegas deal) is not a concern at this point.”
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SHORTS
EXPANSIONS, OPENINGS & NEW BEGINNINGS Nothing signifies economic growth in any industry than openings. Three new bowling centers have or will shortly open their doors for business. On April 5, Star Lanes Polaris in Columbus, OH, welcomed guests to the new 14-lane center with a private function room, a game center and a bar and restaurant. All of the latest touch-screen displays and state-of-the-art furniture along with two billiard tables, dart boards and 60 arcade games await customers. Socialization and interaction are the terms owner Doug Mechling uses to describe his vision. In Temple, TX, general manager Daniel Mueller describes Spare Time Fun Center as a multi-colored bowling and laser tag wonderland. The $6 million, 40,000 square-foot facility boasts 24 bowling lanes, eight of which are in a semi-private, adult setting. There is also a two-story laser tag arena, laser maze, arcade games and a full-service bar and grill. The meeting facility seats up to 200 or may be broken into seven private birthday party rooms. In May, X Lanes opened in Little Tokyo in Downtown Los Angeles. It is a 50,000 square-foot entertainment center located on the second floor of a 25year-old shopping center which will contain 24 lanes of bowling, a 100 game arcade, a nine-table billiards room and a sports bar and pizza restaurant. The planning calls for X Lanes to anchor an entertainment hub planned for the 250,000 square-foot building. First step is bowling.
The definition of a born entrepreneur is Scott Asbell who at the age of 20 realized his dream of owning his own business by purchasing Shenandoah Bowling Lanes, a six-lane bowling facility on the second floor above a thrift store in downtown Mount Jackson, VA. It is home to duckpin style bowling and hosts machines that were installed in 1958. It has a very distinct ‘50s style as few elements or equipment have changed since construction. Asbell is not intimidated by the machines and scrambles to correct them when necessary and reset the pins. He feels the experience he’s gaining now is just as valuable as his business studies. Another ‘50s throwback is Strikehouse Bowl in Aiken, SC, which is now owned and operated by Robert Dutcher and his family. Built in 1953, it was established for Savannah River Site (SRS) employees to have a place to go and have fun. SRS is a nuclear complex operated by the U.S. Department of Energy. Dutcher also works at SRS and hopes to recapture the popularity and local, friendly competition as first realized. Monmouth Bowling Lanes in Monmouth, IL, is now owned and operated by Charlie Brown—not the cartoon icon—but a happy 48-year-old who looks to creating a good place for the community of Monmouth. Brown managed Charlie’s Country Fun in Biggsville before a fire put an end to the center. “When I had my fire, I didn’t know what I was going to do. …This opportunity came along and I think I can make it work. …I’d like to get the kids interested. …If you don’t keep the kids interested, you won’t have bowling.”
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REMEMBRANCES Agnes Duffy USBC Hall of Fame Agnes Duffy, native of Watertown, NY, and member of the Intl. Bowling Media Assoc. and the USBC Bowling Congress Halls of Fame, passed away in April at the age of 92. Duffy served in many capacities including 18 years on the WIBC board of directors and the first vice president for five years. In honor of her meritorious work, the WIBC Membership Development Volunteer of the Year award was named the Agnes Duffy Award.
Jack N. Johns Pro Bowl East, Lansing Michigan Jack Johns, a long time Michigan proprietor of Pro Bowl West and Pro Bowl East in Lansing, passed away March 18, 2013. With his father and brother, Johns had been part of Michigan bowling since 1964. Jack was instrumental in bringing business to Lansing, with Pro Bowl East being home to classic leagues, city tournaments, and even the Women’s International Tournament in East Lansing in 1992. He was inducted into the Bowling Hall of Fame on October 11, 2009 for his “meritorious achievements.” Donations can be made in Jack Johns’ name to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Special Olympics. Friends may visit the guest book at www.tiffanyfuneralhome.com.
The 2012-2013 awards for contributions to the sport and industry of bowling were announced by the International Bowling Media Association. IBI congratulates all the men and women who have and do work so hard to make our industry great! Mort Luby Hall of Fame Award: Dave Luby, founding father of Bowlers Journal. Alberta Crowe Meritorious Service Award: Kegel/John Davis Hennessy Award of Merit: Mark Gerberich 2012 Male Bowler of the Year: Mike Fagan 2012 Female Bowler of the Year: Diandra Asbaty
SHORTS
GOODWILL CENTRAL
“For” being the operative word, bowling can be “for” so many things. Below are just a few of the events that incorporate bowling to generate community or charity goals. “Bowling for Boobs” – AMF Bolingbrook Lanes in Bolingbrook, IL, was the place for breast cancer survivor Kathy Barri’s Susan G Komen Race for the Cure event. Northcross Lanes in Huntersville, NC, teamed up with MusicalMinds, a Lake Norman Kiwanis Club outreach program, to bowl for after-school music enrichment for first and third graders in the local school. This is the first year of the program which it is hoped will continue to grow each year. Bowling for testicular cancer was the goal for the third annual Bowling for the Boys at Delphos Recreational Center in Lima, OH. The 11th annual Bowl for Kids Sake welcomed more than 200 people at Partners Billiards and Bowling Centre in North Bay, Ontario, Canada. A pirates theme brought out a lot of eye patches, gold and black and white stripes and plenty of strikes and spares. “Bowling for the Arts” was the activity of choice for the Racine United Arts Fund which held its event at Castle Lanes in Racine, WI. The RUAF is a joint effort for Racine’s art museum, symphony orchestra, theatre guild and arts council. The American Cancer Society of Champaign, IL, held its first “Bowl for a Cure” at Western Bowl. Communities all over the U.S. turn to bowling to encourage people to support local and national causes. Please let us know what your center is doing. Contact Patty Heath at heath@bowlingindustry.com.
WHO KNEW? Chippewa Bowl in South Bend, IN, joined the ranks of those affected by crime and guns. While guns are not unusual with bank robbery, revenge, domestic travails and rages with mental health, who knew that trying to retrieve two pair of bowling shoes would end in shots fired. Just before closing, a Chippewa Bowl employee noticed two people walking out with the rental shoes. Following them out to their car to confront them, he was greeted with a gun shot fired from the vehicle as it left the scene. Wounded in the face by flying debris from where the bullet hit, he didn’t even get a chance to ask nicely. 14
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THERE IS ALWAYS A WAY! Not having a bowling center did not stop the local chapter of Big Brothers/Big Sisters in Ketchikan, AK, from conducting its Bowl for Kids’ Sake bowling fundraiser. With help from the community and the students from the Ketchikan High School choir standing as the ball return system, the event came off without a hitch. How? Wells Fargo bank underwrote portable bowling equipment and parks and recreation donated space in the main gym. The fundraising came from registered teams who raised money through signing up sponsors before the event. While the proceeds haven’t been fully counted, it is estimated that the group with more than 200 people participating, made more than $7,000 in one day of bowling.
EXPANDS ITS STRATEGIC ALLIANCE WITH Just one year since the announcement of QubicaAMF Worldwide extending its distributor agreement with Bowltech in Sweden and Denmark, the two companies have announced their Strategic Alliance to serve Germany as of April1. The German QubicaAMF employees will join the Bowltech organization. In addition, Folkert Nievelstein, former QubicaAMF Regional Sales Manager for Central & Northern Europe, has accepted the position of Managing Director for Bowltech in Germany. “This extension of the Strategic Alliance … is the perfect fit in this market and a natural fit for the two companies. We have been working together successfully in Europe since 2009,” said Ron Wood, Senior Vice President International Sales and Service for QubicaAMF Worldwide. Hans Krol, owner of Bowltech, said, “We’re looking forward to representing QubicaAMF, its broad product line and supporting QubicaAMF customers in Germany over the coming years.” Both companies will continue to operate their respective direct sales offices in France and the U.K. QubicaAMF will continue to stock and sell its full line of pins in Europe.
SHORTS
Media Expansion Mode for Jim Howell, president of Perky’s Pizza, along with Majed Al-Hokair of Al-Hokair Group, announced an agreement to develop the Perky’s Pizza brand in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates by adding 15 new locations between the two countries. Presently, Perky’s has 16 locations in Saudi Arabia. The new developments, under the umbrella of the Al-Hokair Group, will consist of large entertainment centers that either have a couple of bowling lanes or mini bowling options. Mixed-use facilities are very much the wave of the future particularly in this area of the world. Back from a recent trip to visit the existing facilities and to discuss marketing efforts for the future sites, Howell said, “The Middle East is a dynamic market. We are fortunate to partner with the top hospitality brand in the region. Our relationship with the Al-Hokair Group goes back over 15 years. We are so impressed with their overall operation, we have agreed to allow them to develop the Perky’s Pizza brand in the entire MENA Region.” Majed Al-Hokair (left) and Jim Howell shake on a well-conceived partnership in the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa).
WATCH
DESKTOP FINGER BOWLING KIT Even goofing off at work can be organized and sold in a kit. Paladone Products has created a beat-the-officeboredom-blues with a miniature bowling kit. Included for your pleasure are six pin shaped erasers, elastic bands to build your own bowling ball, and finally a make-yourown bowling ramp. Office life has never been so fun!
COLBERT GOES TO THE PEOPLE Political pundit Stephen Colbert has been lending a hand to his sister’s run for office in South Carolina’s 1st Congressional District. Elizabeth Colbert Busch won the Democratic nomination. Earlier in the campaign, Stephen hosted a fundraiser at a local bowling center. The rationale to hold the event at a bowling center? “We’re going to raise money in a bowling alley because we’re of the people,” he said to television host Jimmy Fallon. “You know, you’ve got to go to a bowling alley because that’s where the people are.” From your lips to God’s ears! Oh, another benefit? Bowling is “one of the few sports that comes with a bar.” [Note: Busch lost her bid in the May election.]
THE CLEAN-UP BALL New York Mets pitcher Shaun Marcum must be a really good bowler, because he has a bowling ball specifically for strikes and one specifically for spares. His new clean-up ball, the one he uses for spares, has a skull floating in the middle. Mets PR guy Jay Horwitz wrote on Twitter, ”He uses it just for spares. It doesn’t spin as much as his strike ball.”
Bowling Tax - Robbing Peter to Pay Paul? Some say yay; some say nay. Trying to bring monies back into the coffers in Ohio, Governor John Kasick has proposed a lower, yet expanded, 5 percent sales tax, generally referred to as a “bowling tax.” Actually it is an admission tax covering new items such as circuses, arcade games, sports events and bowling. His plan would include cutting the income tax rate by 20% over three years and the small business tax by 50%. On the flip side, the proposal would tack a sales tax on to attorney fees, cable TV and pet grooming as well as the entertainment options mentioned above. Eric Bates, president of Bates Brothers Amusements Co., worries that some county fairs won’t survive if forced to give up 5 percent of the gate fees to the government. On the bowling side, Marty Teifke, owner of Timbers Bowling in 16
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Maumee, near Toledo, concedes that it would hurt to pay a “bowling tax” on lane rentals. “It’s not easy to raise prices, and the economy is not the best around here,” Teifke was quoted by John Sewer of The Christian Science Monitor. It should be pointed out that approximately 70 cities and villages in Ohio already have some sort of admission tax right around 3 percent with Cleveland at 8 percent. Across the board, it was agreed that expansion of the sales tax would more than likely be passed along to the customers. Strikes and spares would be a little more expensive, and who wants to pay for gutter balls?
SHORTS
Bowling and Kids are Great Partners Bowling’s future might very well lie in the work of children. Whether bowling has a positive effect on them or whether they affect bowling is mute. It is a good combo. April’s IBI noted in Goodwill Central a young bowling enthusiast, Abbigail Hickman, who used her passion for bowling to benefit her community and a Tracy, CA, animal shelter in particular. Abbigail bowls on the West Valley Bowl Travel Team in Tracy, is a member of the Nor Cal YBA and bowls in the Youth Bowlers Tour. Her high game is 204. Through her own initiative, Abbigail decided to do a fundraiser, which she labeled Pins for Pets, to help the animals so that they would not have to be euthanized. Her efforts garnered $4,000 in supplies and $2,400 in cash. She went door to door to businesses asking for donations and/or gifts for raffles. The Eldorado Resort in Reno donated a Abbigail Hickman package valued at $260. The West Valley Bowl was sold out! Due to the success of the event, Abbigail plans on making her fundraiser an annual event with a goal next year of $10,000. Somehow one gets the feeling that this will not be a hollow pursuit. Another example of the love of the sport of bowling, leads a youngster to thinking outside the box. Fifth grader Kyah Surritte shared, “Ever since my dad took me to bowling, I’ve just loved it from that day on.” At the Greater Kansas City
Science Fair in March, Kyah took that love and earned Gold Achievement and Special awards for her science project, “Bowling with an Attitude.” Encouraged by her parents to incorporate her passion with academics, Kyah decided to take different oil patterns that can affect the trajectory of the ball and see which could improve her play. The hardest part was explaining what the oil patterns were and how they affected the ball. She hypothesized that one of the three she used would best suit her game only to discover that was not the case. One of the judges noted on the judging sheet, “I am a bowler also and have worked in a bowling center, so I am thrilled to see you take your passion and create Kyah Suritte an experiment.” Photo credit: In her age and division, Kyah is a BonnerSprings.com two-time Kansas State Pepsi Champion and the 2012 state champion in singles. Her average score is a 150; her high game score is 235; and high series is a 588, putting her in the Kansas top 10 for her age division for the last four years. The lesson here? There are probably many, but, certainly, nurturing youngsters in bowling or any sport or activity can open the doors to not only enriching their recreation but possibly inspiring them to combine their passion, their sense of responsibility and their academic achievement.
Yes, Bowling Ball Beach! We have seen bowling salt and pepper shakers, furniture and jewelry shaped like pins and balls. We’ve noticed sign boards luring passerbys into centers to while away an afternoon, but in California, there is a day trip for the more adventurous which ends at Bowling Ball Beach. North of San Francisco, on Highway 1, the ocean meets the land with cliffs and hidden coves. It is here that writer Patrick Cooper lays out an ambitious trip to a quiet beach where dozens of large and almost completely smooth stones sit in rows on the beach, “and wave upon wave rolls in to continue the work.” Cooper’s piece, Greetings from
Evanston, Ill. - Chasing randomness and form, takes an obscure hike and puts it on the bucket list. “At the south end of the pull-off, there’s a well-marked trail entrance. At the north end, there’s a poorly marked trail. Take the poorly marked path. Follow the trail through a grove of trees and then across a wild-grass field. “When the trail splits without notice in two directions, take the right path. Descend a set of old wooden stairs, and when the stairs turn into a ladder down a cliff, keep going. Hang onto the metal rope holding them together. At the cliff’s bottom, balance on a fallen tree trunk to ng Ball cross a creek mouth. …” is Bowli , CA n io t a in t na s Final de near Point Are Intrigued? h c Bea Cooper is a writer, editor, was an Associate Producer at CNN, and is presently employed as a Senior Product Manager for the NPR site. Go to www.patrickcooper.com/2012/03/california-trip-day-five-am-bowling-ball-beach.html IBI
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SHORTS
LOOKING AHEAD ARMY STANDS TALL The USBC has tagged Syracuse and Mobile as host cities.
IN ARMED FORCES
It is never too soon to start planning and that is exactly what Syracuse and Mobile will be doing. The USBC has awarded the Open Championships in 2018 to Syracuse, NY, and the national women’s bowling championships in 2021 to Mobile, AL. The Open, a four-month tournament, is expected to draw approximately 80,000 visitors to downtown Syracuse and pump $70 million into the local economy. This will be the fifth time the city has hosted the tournament; the last time was 1999. “We are excited about the opportunity to bring the tournament to the East Coast, and Syracuse has everything we look for in a host city,” said USBC Executive Director Stu Upson. Although a contract has not been officially signed, the Mobile Sports Authority and the USBC have come to an agreement that the 2021 national women’s bowling championships will take place in Mobile. Danny Corte, the executive director of the Mobile Sports Authority, said the USBC would build 48 lanes at the Mobile Arthur R. Outlaw Convention Center. “We’re looking forward to the opportunity to bring the women’s championships to the Gulf Coast,” said Brian Lewis, the USBC managing director of tournaments. It is the first time Mobile has hosted this event. In 1994, it hosted the 91st annual USBC men’s championships.
U.S. Armed Forces enjoyed four days of internal bowling battle between the services. Reported by Tim Hipps, IMCOM Public Affairs, the All-Army men won their third consecutive team title, and the All-Air Force women won their fourth in a row at the 2013 Armed Forces Bowling Championships, held April 23-26, at the Bonnyman Bowling Center at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Over the course of the four The all-Army Bowling Team poses at days, All-Army men had 20,167 Camp Lejeune, NC. The Army men took pins, followed by runner-up All- first place and the women finished Navy with 19,274, All-Air Force second behind Air Force. with 19,010 and host All-Marine Corps with 18,625. The All-Air Force women won with 17,844 pins, All-Army women with 17,356, the All-Navy women finished third with 17,356 and All-Marine Corp women had 14,794. IBI salutes all the men and women of our Armed Forces! They are all winners!
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BOWLING CHAMPIONSHIP
CENTER STAGE
Henry Clay Frick. All photos in this story courtesy of the Frick Collection/The Frick Art Reference Library Archives.
he hustle and bustle of the city that never sleeps defines New York. It's easy to forget that behind the modern sky scape lies a very old city filled with hidden treasures. IBI came across one of those treasures at a beautiful mansion once owned by the steel magnate, Henry Clay Frick. History paints Frick as a controversial and larger than life character. Frick's business partner was Andrew Carnegie and together these titans were the founders of United States Steel.
T
By Anna Littles
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The lanes were used as storage for the Frick's extensive library. The recent renovation restores them to their original beauty.
Though they were business partners, Frick and Carnegie did not like each other. In today's vernacular we would call them "frenemies." Carnegie and Frick both had mansions in Pittsburgh. However, Carnegie had a mansion in New York City as well. Not to be outdone, Frick decided he needed a presence in New York and purchased property on Fifth Avenue and 70th Street in Manhattan. He wanted to build a mansion so massive that it covered a full city block. History tells us that Frick boasted to his friends he was building it to "make Carnegie's place look like a miner's shack." Frick was also passionate about art and was a voracious collector. When his mansion was completed in 1914, he had a home worthy of his extensive art collection which today is known as the Frick collection. The Frick Collection and Museum is one of the top 10 places to visit in New
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CENTER STAGE
The garden facing 70th Street.
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York. It has lovely gardens, situated across from what this New Yorker considers to be one of the most beautiful parks in the world, Central Park. And when you visit the museum, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time, back to the turn of the 20th century. It gives you the feel of still being in a private residence adorned with an amazing art collection. Frick's mansion was a state-of-the-art home for its time, including the best in games and leisure activities such as a billiards room, and of course, a room dedicated to the sport we all love, bowling! Frick had two lanes designed and installed for the family to enjoy. The billiards room and bowling lanes are located in the home’s subbasement and were completed in 1916, two years after the home was built. Sad to say, the bowling lanes are not open to the public due to current New York City fire codes for public safety. However, these photos offer us a wonderful glimpse at the early 20th century world of the rich and famous. The hand-tooled ceilings, wood work and paneling capture the true craftsmanship of the time. Henry Clay Frick died in 1919, just a few years after the lanes were installed. Soon
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The Frick Mansion's living hall, dining room and Fragonard Room as it looks today.
after his death the lanes were repurposed for a library which this 1923 black & white photo shows. It was later fully restored. Even though the public cannot visit the lanes, it's neat knowing it's there. A hidden treasure, safe and secure, in the heart of New York City. â?–
Anna Littles, a screenplay and freelance writer and producer originally from the Bronx, New York, now resides in Santa Monica, California.You can see her work on YouTube, IMDB, or on her website at Anna@alittleLA.com.
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VISIT
US AT
EXP0O L W O B TH #15 BOO
COVER STORY
ALL HAIL THE
PRESIDENT! By Jackie Wyckoff
C
athy DeSocio has been in the bowling business her whole life. The Wichita, Kansas, resident is president of JOMA which owns and operates seven bowling centers in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma. It didn’t come as a surprise to anyone that on July 1, 2012, she made history by becoming the first female president of the Bowling Proprietors Association of America, following in her father’s footsteps, past president and Hall of Famer John Crum. DeSocio wears many hats: in the industry, in business, and in life. In addition to being president of BPAA and president of JOMA Bowling, she serves on the United States Bowling Congress Board of Directors and as a trustee for the International Bowling Museum and Hall of Fame. It’s a good thing she loves to travel. Cathy is married to Frank DeSocio, vice president of Strike Ten Entertainment, which is the marketing arm of the bowling industry. They have three talented children, Drew (25), Alex (24) and Elizabeth (18), none of whom, according to Cathy, are interested in the business of bowling. Drew will be graduating from Washington State University in 2014 with a degree in Veterinary Medicine. He has indicated that he does not expect his parents to call him “Dr. Drew.” Alex will be interning with the Merola Opera in San Francisco this summer and then starts a two-year Resident Artist Program with the Pittsburgh Opera. His parents are thrilled that he is out of college and income-producing. Elizabeth is finishing her first year at Oklahoma State University where she majors in Animal Science and Molecular Biology. She plans on attending veterinary school. A lifelong bowler since the age of four, Cathy has bowled in YABA, WIBC and USBC leagues but has settled for subbing the past couple of years due to her work schedule. She bowled for Wichita State University, saying “Gordon Vadakin took
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COVER STORY
An exclusive interview with BPAA president Cathy DeSocio on the eve of Bowl Expo reveals a woman fully dedicated to the advancement of our industry. Professional photos provided by Darrin Hackney.
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COVER STORY IBI: For those unfamiliar with BPAA, explain what the association does. DeSocio: BPAA is the national trade association for bowling centers and proprietors. Our mission is to improve the profitability of our member centers. We strive to achieve our mission through education, smart buy programs and participation in industry wide initiatives that are good for bowling. IBI: Do you use a business model? DeSocio: BPAA’s executive director Steve Johnson is responsible for the business operations of BPAA, and yes, he does require business plans for all BPAA programs. IBI: Give us some background on your
experience as a proprietor.
Frank and Cathy DeSocio
pity on me and let me on the team for a year. It became obvious to me that I was more skilled in the business of bowling than the sport of bowling.” With everything going on in this busy lady’s life, we were happy to be able to catch up with her to review her first year as president, chat about the industry in general, and take a look forward to the next year at BPAA under her tenure.
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DeSocio: My first paid job in a bowling center was during the Kansas State Women’s Tournament: I was a porter. I must have been about 13. Since that time, I think other than head mechanic, I have at some time or other worked every job in at least one of our centers. Some were obviously much more fun and better suited to my personality.
COVER STORY IBI: We know this isn’t your “first
rodeo,” but has being president of BPAA been what you expected? DeSocio: Yes, because I knew it was a great honor and opportunity to participate in setting the strategic direction for our members. I also believe that every president brings their persona and expectations to the job. IBI: What has it been like to follow
in your father’s footsteps? DeSocio: Fun, exciting, and a little sad. I wish he were here to give me guidance and advice. He was a tremendous mentor. He and I shared an office which could get very interesting as he commented on my phone conversations during the actual conversations. During the last five years of his life, we had lunch together every day he was in the office. He taught me not just about business but about how to live my life.
IBI: What are your key success factors? DeSocio: We hire highly skilled people, give them clear expectations, provide them the tools to do their job and let them take personal ownership in the process. IBI: What are your key challenges? DeSocio: The balance between oversight and micromanaging, retaining excellent employees and keeping our focus on the future. IBI: How do you manage the relationship with
your Board of Directors? DeSocio: The Board of Directors is composed of bowling proprietors. They are my peers. I treat them the way I want to be treated. I am open, honest and expect the same from them in return. IBI: How do you manage the relationship with
your executive staff?
IBI: How do you balance your busy
life, changing from your “BPAA” hat to your “Proprietor” hat to your “Wife and Mom” hat? DeSocio: Family first, always. Second, I ask myself a question my dad would ask me when I was obsessing over some small detail. “Ten years from now, will anybody really care about (insert whatever the issue is)? If not, move on.” I try to spend my time on the things that are the most important to me. I prioritize. IBI: What lessons have you
learned on the way to becoming BPAA President? DeSocio: Be Honest. Take Responsibility. Give Credit. IBI: What is your most important
professional achievement to date? DeSocio: Sustaining and growing the family business. The group of talented and dedicated managers and staff that make up our company is definitely my most important professional accomplishment. I am lucky these outstanding individuals want to work for our company. IBI
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COVER STORY IBI: How do you balance and manage other
International Bowling Campus partners’ (USBC, STE, IBMHF, etc.) interests? DeSocio: We have a general question we ask, “Is it good for bowling?” That should be our focus. If bowling is successful, we are all successful. IBI: How do you manage organizational politics
and/or conflicting personalities, interests or views? DeSocio: I love discourse. There is nothing better than to have a lively discussion about ideas and issues. Personalities and personal interest should not factor in. Leadership isn’t about being popular; it is about doing the right thing, for the right reasons and getting the desired results. Cathy, flanked by her Witchita management team, from left to right: Darren Needham, general manager of The Alley; Olivia Sandham, general manager of Northrock Lanes; Ray Baty, general manager of West Acres Bowl and general managing Joma Company while Cathy serves as BPAA president.
DeSocio: The only executive staff that the BPAA board has the right to manage is our executive director. The board is direct and straight forward in its relationship with our ED. Mutual respect is the key to any relationship between volunteer leaders and staff.
IBI: What is the biggest challenge you feel BPAA
faces today, and how do you meet it head on? DeSocio: The biggest challenge is our diverse membership base. BPAA has member centers that are 4 lanes up to 80+; small town to big city centers; traditional bowling to family entertainment centers. How do we provide value to all of them? That is why we have a variety of programs, but it is always a challenge to provide value to our members. IBI: How do you see the future of the economy in
the bowling industry? DeSocio: I am an optimist. Our industry is evolving. I think that gives us an opportunity. We have to be willing to change to meet the ever-changing demand of the new consumers. IBI: What is your personal work ethic, and does it
affect the BPAA culture? DeSocio: I believe you work as long and as hard as necessary to get the job done. I think that the BPAA culture has always been one of hard work. The association is reflective of its constituents. We are entrepreneurs and small business owners. IBI: How comfortable are you with change, and
how do you handle it? DeSocio: I think I am very open to change. I am a risk-taker. When an opportunity presents itself, I ask myself, “What’s the worst that could happen?” Then I make a plan to deal with the worst scenario and take the risk, usually, not always. IBI: If you could instantly change any aspect of the
business, what would it be? DeSocio: If I had a magic wand, I would: • Instantly transform all centers into new upgraded facilities, a new fresher version of their existing center. 38
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COVER STORY
The JOMA management team takes a Go-kart break.
IBI: What excites you most about the business of bowling? DeSocio: The people. Bowlers leave the comfort of their homes, get in their cars, and drive to our centers, park, walk in, often toting 30+ pounds of equipment with the expectation that they are going to have a good time. We try to provide that. No one comes into a bowling center because they have to. They choose us. Our job is to show them how much we appreciate that effort. All of us, bowling writers, proprietors, associations, ball manufacturers, capital equipment companies, food and beverage venders, all contribute to their experience. We are all in this together. IBI: What is the best piece of advice you received when taking on
the role of president? Who gave it? DeSocio: Be yourself, and remember you are always a proprietor first and foremost. That piece of advice came from Jeff Bojé [BPAA president 2004-2006].
The DeSocios’ children Alex, Elizabeth and Drew. Photo provided by Cathy DeSocio.
• Expand our youth bowling efforts. More kids bowling more often. • Create a grassroots effort behind our best and most talented athletes, which would lead to fully supported and funded professional tours. I could keep adding more and more, but those are probably my top three. IBI: How much influence, if any,
do the proprietors have over the business of BPAA? DeSocio: The business of BPAA has to be about the proprietor, not just some of us, but all of us. For BPAA to be successful, the proprietors must be successful. 40
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IBI: Can you share any personal lessons that others might relate to? DeSocio: As you know, I like to talk. My greatest lesson, that I am still working on, is to listen, actively listen. When we actively listen, we learn to be leaders. I am definitely still working on that. IBI: Now that the first year of your presidency is drawing to
a close, would you care to reflect on what lies ahead for your second year? DeSocio: The job of the president and the officer group, along with the BPAA board, is to set the direction of BPAA to ensure the future success of all bowling proprietors. As a group we will all continue to work toward providing programs and solutions for the issues proprietors are facing every day in their business. IBI: Is there anything you want to add? DeSocio: It is an honor and privilege to be president of BPAA. Thank you for letting me share my thoughts and opinions. ❖ Jackie Wyckoff, who started bowling in 1968, is a San Francisco (CA) Bay Area native, avid Giants fan and gourmet chef. She was President of the Bowling Writers Association of America, 2009-2011. Wyckoff has worked and volunteered in the bowling industry since 1972 with jobs including Center Manager, USBC (WIBC) Association President and Writer and Promoter for all things Bowling. She was a PWBA Regional Player with several state and local titles to her credit.
FEATURE
By Mark Miller ess than an hour south of Phoenix is the city of Maricopa which in the year 2000 had just 1,040 residents. Since then, America's only county surrounded by two Native American communities, AkChin and Gila Bend, has grown more than 4,000%. Maricopa still combines a small town atmosphere with a growing business community. There are the usual fast food restaurants, two golf courses and a casino-hotel. But in November, the landscape changed dramatically when one of the most unique family entertainment complexes in the world opened. The UltraStar Multi-Tainment Center at AkChin Circle, located adjacent to Harrah's Ak-Chin Casino-Resort,
L
BUILD IT AND
THEY WILL COME The Ak-Chin tribe’s UltraStar Multi-tainment Center attracts visitors to the new Arizona destination in Maricopa. 42
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FEATURE
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FEATURE Ultimate A/V : “Everyone would agree the
visuals are incredible. They installed a single controller for all of the LCDs, bowling projectors, sound systems, and even the custom circular foyer centerpiece," Mohammad Ahmadi, Be Media president says. “It’s an entirely impressive testament to the Ak Chin community’s mission to conceptualize managing these stunning presentations from anywhere in the facility or even around the world by capitalizing on available commercial technologies.” Be Media designed, engineered and installed the audiovisuals for the entire UltraStar complex. (www.bemedia.com)
features 165,000 square feet of fun for all ages including the 24-lane Ten Pins Down bowling center. “It's very cool,” said Adam Saks, vice president of operations for UltraStar Theaters and the complex's general manager. “We have nine venues under one roof. We look at it as one-stop, non-stop entertainment. It's the future of our industry.” While the California-based UltraStar Theaters manages the $54 million facility, the 850-member Ak-Chin community fully owns it. The Ak-Chin share the Maricopa
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Ultra-Star president and CEO Alan Grossberg with celebrity Booboo Stewart, one of the newest cast members in X Men and also a star of the Twilight series, at the VIP Grand Opening.
area with the Gila Bend community. “We didn't spare any expense to present a great facility,” said Ak-Chin Chairman Louis Manuel about the twolevel complex with 300 employees. The downstairs is for people of all ages. In addition to the bowling lanes, there's a large concourse with a game center, laser tag arena, restaurant, cafe and sports bar, and 12 movie “auditoruiums” featuring stadium seating. Upstairs offer places where those age 21 and older can have their minds and senses entertained. The Luxe Lounge offers food, drinks and fun while two theaters and the J Bar strictly cater to adults. And coming this spring will be the addition of the 1,000-person Ak-Chin Amphitheatre for outdoor concerts and other events including private parties. “We had to create a concept to entertain everyone,” Saks said. “It's a state-of-the-art facility where the best technology comes together.” Ten Pins Down has 12 lanes split on both sides of a wide concourse and features amenities found in most boutique establishments. All lanes have comfortable couches and living-room style coffee table enhanced by large video screens and a modern audio system. Three areas can be separated by metallic curtains for privacy. There's even a fireplace sitting area and party room. “Bowling made sense because it's a natural progression of modern
FEATURE entertainment,” Saks said. “Today's bowling center is in the middle of the revitilization of family entertainment.” Available only for open/recreational play at the Nov. 15 grand opening, Ten Pins Down was scheduled to start leagues by early 2013. Manuel said the complex was the culmination of a twoyear process. “We were looking at how many people will come,” Manuel said. “We wanted to figure out how we could keep people there to do other things besides go to the casino (which opened in 1994). Maricopa has a lot of nice things but needed higher end restaurants. We had the opportunity and funding to do that. We reached out to some area movie companies who didn't think it could work. If someone tells us no, we keep moving forward.” So the council brought in UltraStar to discuss their idea. “The Ak-Chin Council wanted to put in a theater complex and hired us as consultants to look at the concept for them,” said UltraStar President and Chief Executive Officer Alan Grossburg. “The statistics supported only a 6-8 screen theater so we said what about something bigger under one roof. We did handwritten descriptions on pieces of paper and they loved them that night.” The Ak-Chin Council quickly approved the project and hired Ultra-Star to manage the property. “Our first meeting they had enough faith and trust in us to move forward,” Grossburg said. The project took only 14 months from the time the parties first met until opening day. What normally takes 18 months to build was completed in 10, a testament to the Ak-Chin's perseverance. Grossburg has been in the movie industry for more
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Ak Chin also invested heavily in a state-of-theart laser tag system that was provided by Zone Laser Tag. “It was an incredible experience to bring laser tag to a market that is not normally serviced by the family entertainment world. We are really proud how the system was incorporated into the entire setup," says Erik Guthrie, Vice President of Marketing & Sales at Zone.
FEATURE than 36 years, including 22 in partnership with John Ellison, former owner of Mann Theatres. The two met when Grossburg sold a movie group to Ellison and they later opened Nickelodeon Theatres. “We've always been a leader in movie theatre innovations,” said Grossburg, who recalls bowling duckpins in his native Brooklyn, New York. “We were the first with THX installation and the first Ak-Chin Chairman Louis Manuel with D-box seats. We have a saying 'if you are not standing on the edge you are taking up too much room.' Everyone else shows movies for a living. We entertain people.” UltraStar owns and operates 14 venues with 145 screens in Southern California and Arizona. “This is our first multi-tainment complex in the country and it came out way beyond my wildest imagination,” Grossburg said. “Moving forward, we'd like to do more of these. We like the management end rather than being the tenant or doing our own.” To ensure the complex's bowling was a success, Saks hired fellow San Diego resident Joe Guy as director of bowling and amusements. Another transplant from the San Diego area, former Professional Bowlers Association member Larry Schroeder, who bowled with Guy and his father, has been helping out where he can. “Since I work from home, it's nice to be able to go three miles down the street and bowl when I want to,” said Schroeder, vice president of sales for a medical imaging company. “They're just getting started there finding out what to do. I'll help them with their leagues. The bowlers down here don't know lane courtesy and neither does the staff. I've been teaching the staff and other bowlers how to do it. If you know the rules, you have more fun.” Schroeder, who moved to Maricopa a year ago with his fiancé and two young children, loves the potential Ten Pins Down and the UltraStar Multi-Tainment complex offers. “I moved here from California where there were a lot of people and bowling is in towns that have everything,” he said. “This town doesn't have much. There's a Walmart and 57 fast-food restaurants, plus a hotel, a lot of dentists and not much else. This place is first-class. We really enjoy the place. We have a lot of fun.” Manuel and the rest of the Ak-Chin Council are pleased as well. “We wanted to be above AMC but below IPIC Entertainment,” he said. “We didn't want to look like a cookie-cutter facility. We wanted it to look like our community and we did that. It's doing well and bowling is one of our biggest things. The enthusiasm of being here is great.” With the Ultra-Star Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle, the community has a lot to gain from it’s success. With all of it’s unique attractions, the new complex will entertain visitors for years to come. ❖
IBI contributor Mark Miller will be selling his history book "Bowling: America's Greatest Indoor Pastime" at the BowlSole booth at Bowl Expo in Las Vegas. Stop by and pick up a personally-autographed copy.
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WHAT BOWLING MEANS TO ME
By Anna Littles
As PBA champ Wayne Webb and his wife Elaine make over a center in Columbus, Ohio, it's clear to see that the center is not the only thing being transformed. 50
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B
owling is an ancient sport that has been a cultural favorite for thousands of years and brings families and whole communities together. Those who love this game have a passion for it like none other. And that is one of the keys to a life worth living: passion. One of the greatest pro bowlers of all time, Wayne Webb, who at the age of 12 discovered his passion for the game, has forged a professional career like none other; 20 PBA titles, a member of the PBA Hall of Fame, and in 2008 he made the list of the “50 Greatest Players of the Last 50 years.” In 2010 Webb was named PBA Senior Player of the Year making him the second bowler in history to win both PBA and Senior PBA Player of the Year awards in a single career. Passion may be the engine that drives success, but success is also determined by how well we handle life’s challenges. Wayne Webb has overcome them all. The ups and downs of a brilliant career, and now the
WHAT BOWLING MEANS TO ME adventure of being on the other side of the bowling industry as a proprietor of Wayne Webb’s Columbus Bowl located in Columbus, Ohio. Wayne and his wife Elaine lived a very comfortable life in Sacramento, California, and never thought of running a business. Yet something stirred in Wayne. It was a desire, which he had in his heart for a long time, and that was to run a bowling center. More than 2½ years ago, Wayne and his business partner purchased the Rainbow Bowling Center in Elaine and Wayne Webb Columbus. It didn’t take long for Wayne to have the revelation that “when you’re buying a business, there’s a reason why people are selling it.” In this case, the business was run down and mismanaged. Fortunately, Wayne and his business partner make a great team. Wayne brought the name and experience to the table, his business partner brought the finances. Launching a new business in a tough economy was a risk, but Wayne and his wife took the plunge, packed up their family and moved to Ohio. According to Wayne, “Ohio is a land where bowling is much bigger and people take it seriously.” A great fit for Wayne’s passion and vision. It’s been a lot of hard work, far more than they ever imagined. You see, Wayne and his wife are perfectionists, and it wasn’t long before they found themselves pouring in 60 hours each, per week, to put the bowling center together. And with a business partner that likes to renovate, they’ve put a million dollars into the place so far and it’s been worth every penny. Many of the changes include a brand new bar called Laney’s Sport Bar, named after Wayne's wife. They’ve garnered the attention and awards from the industry for best design renovations. They have synthetic lanes with the Brunswick Pro Anvilane as well as the Ebonite Vantec scoring system with 42 inch monitors. Wayne notes that,“the TV [monitor] is about as big as anyone has put in for scoring.” Wayne loves the system, saying, “it has bells and whistles." Those 48 new pro lanes provide a great opportunity to run large tournaments which is what Wayne loves to do. In 2011 they hosted the Senior Masters, with professional bowlers from all over the country and beyond. USBC governing body oversees this and it is one of the major tournaments for bowling. When Webb’s Columbus Bowl hosted this event it was the first time this tournament was held on the other side of the Mississippi in 14 years! Locally, they host the biggest men’s league in the country. IBI
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WHAT BOWLING MEANS TO ME
The league runs the house on Sunday mornings and by 10am the bowling center is jam packed. During the week the center offers a colorful and bright atmosphere enhanced with carpeting that is bold in color and print; families love it. Beside the new lanes, they also spent $25,000 putting in a non-stop cosmic light show which is spectacular on the weekends and a big hit with teens and kids. Their food menu offers all the classics at reasonable prices. A perfect complement to their promo specials like “Bowl Your Head Off,” offered seven days a week.
Just as they have committed endless hours of work and substantial monies to upgrade Wayne Webb’s Columbus Bowling Center, Wayne and his wife are just as committed and dedicated to making a difference in the lives of the next generation. Elaine Webb has done a lot work with youth. Born in San Francisco and raised in the Bay area, just like her husband she is passionate about bowling and is committed to developing a strong youth program. When she was growing up, bowling centers were filled with kids. In a land where video games abound, the end result has been a decline among kids’ interest in bowling. Well, that’s about to change if Elaine has her way. It’s been her drive to bring a resurgence of kids back to the game and tap into the undiscovered raw talent that’s out there. Elaine was quick to point out that bowling is like no other sport, “kids use their math and social skills in this game.” And the best part, their youth program gets troubled kids off the streets. On average, Webb’s youth program draws in 30-40 kids each year. This past summer they took a group of 22 kids to compete in the Nationals which was hosted in Indianapolis. They all had a great opportunity to meet other kids from all over the country as well as compete on a national level. Currently, the youth league at Webb’s center runs 34 weeks and meets Saturday mornings. It’s a large group of 33 kids, and 52
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WHAT BOWLING MEANS TO ME
at the end of league, Wayne coaches the kids which is a huge benefit for all of them. Webb’s center is also host to the Ohio High School State Championships for both boys and girls and it’s a popular televised show. High School bowling is huge in Ohio! Kids try out, and once they make the team, they compete against other high school kids. The WSTO, an Ohio sports channel, covers this event along with the Ohio State Athletics Association (OHSAA). Already Wayne and Elaine have identified several prodigies from their youth program. Wayne Webb's Columbus Bowl - Jr. All Stars features 18 year-old Courtney Barney who already holds several titles with the JTBA (Junior Tournament Bowling Association). She is definitely a future pro for the women's tour. And then there is 16 year old Chaz Dennis who holds two world records: the first ever at age 10 to shoot a perfect 300 game, and at age 11, he held the highest series of 800 for six months. Honorable mention goes out Josh McKinney, an extraordinary young man who is 18 years old. When he was two, Josh developed bacterial meningitis forcing his parents to make the tough decision to allow doctors to amputate his legs and arms in an effort to contain the 54
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infection and save his life. This life challenge did not slow Josh down one bit. He loves to bowl and does so without any prosthesis. He currently averages 126. They even have a couple of tweens that are up and coming such as eleven year old Zach Grove who’s average is 178; and 13 year old Jonathan Marshall who averages 163 and has an ambition to be on the pro tour. Taking over a rundown business has been one of those life challenges for Wayne and Elaine. Even with TV events and great feedback, they are still far from being where they want to be. But Elaine makes it clear that they would not have come as far as they have without the support of their extremely dedicated staff. Together, they all share a passion for a sport that is like none other and a vision to make a difference in the lives of so many. A quote from Wayne’s web site captures it all: “Serving the greatest customers in the world!” Wayne and Elaine are an amazing couple and are definitely in a league of their own. In addition to transforming their lives, the Webbs help the youth of Columbus to shape theirs in a positive way. ❖
Anna Littles, a screenplay and freelance writer and producer originally from the Bronx, New York, now resides in Santa Monica, California. You can see her work on YouTube, IMDB, or on her website at Anna@alittleLA.com.
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Put your bar and restaurant menu in your customer’s hands with the SnackBar Mobile App. Customers download the SnackBar app onto their mobile phone, select items to add to their cart and pay by credit card. Orders print out on a provided receipt printer. Bigger Orders, Tip Defaults to 20% and customers can have more fun! Coming soon, let bowlers pay for league right from their phone! www.SnackBarApp.com or (302) 566-5750.
Summit Strategies is a leading expense reduction and commercial real estate leasing firm. We review operating expenses including Merchant Processing Fees, Business Insurance Premiums, Telecom Rates, Payroll Processing Services and Lease Terms. Summit will assess your current fees and rates and let you know if you are on the most transparent pricing program and receiving the best value. Confidential assessments are provided at no cost. For more information, contact Andrew Nadler, CEO, 240-821-6900, anadler@summit-strategies.com or www.summit-strategies.com.
Now your center can shine with the total HD upgrade for Vector Plus scoring. New Samsung 1080p LED monitors, introduced by Brunswick, feature 7x greater resolution than previous LCDs. Slimmer, sleeker looking & use only half the energy. The entire Vector Plus scoring library is now rendered in full HD, so everything bowlers see on the screens, from music videos to a big football game to your bowling score, is as brilliant and sharp as can be. Visit www.brunswickbowling.com/products/vector-plus/vectorhd/ for more information.
CELL PHONE CHARGING STATION
The Surge Company introduces the Cell Phone Charging Station. This new product delivers a rapid charge boost, displays advertisement on the LCD monitor, and provides the charging cords for today’s most popular cell phones and smartphones. Impress your customers with free charging services and WIFI hotspot connection. For more details, visit www.TheSurgeCompany.com or call 404-449-0210.
SWEET SMELLS
Bowl-Aroma is a proprietary blend of fragrance oil that produces amazing air freshening throughout your bowling center. The smell of your center can greatly impact your customer’s experience. The benefits of scenting your lanes are endless. Bowl-Aroma is passionate about bringing quality, and a whole new atmosphere to your bowling center. Bowl-Aroma has several scents to choose from. Call us at 888-635-0030 for a sample, or go to www.bowlaroma.net. 56
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DATEBOOK
JUNE 10-14 Brunswick Training Classes GS Series Pinsetter 800-937-2695 or schools@brunbowl.com 17-21 Brunswick Training Classes Vector Scorer Maintenance 800-937-2695 or schools@brunbowl.com 23-28 Bowl Expo – “Go for the Gold” Las Vegas Convention Center Info: Drew Guntert 800-343-1329 x 8449 drew@bpaa.com
21-23 6th Annual Independent Bowling Org. Convention & Tradeshow Bavarian Inn Lodge , MI Tracy Long – 866-861-5163 Scott Bennett – 888-484-2322
22-26 Brunswick Training classes Vector Scorer Maintenance 800-937-2695 or schools@brunbowl.com
23-25 BPAA School for Bowling Center Management Embassy Suites, Columbus, OH pat@bowlohio.com; 937-933-8363
AUGUST 5-9 Brunswick Pinsetter School Pinsetter factory Szekesfehervar, Hungary Siggi Hill Siggi.Hill@brunbowl.com
JULY 8-19 Brunswick Training Classes A-2 Pinsetter Moline, IL Frank Miroballi – 540-325-7684 Frankm1441@aol.com 15-19 Brunswick Training Classes GS Series Pinsetter 800-937-2695 or schools@brunsbowl.com 17 BCA of Florida, BOD Meeting Pink Shell Beach Resort Ft. Myers Beach, FL Chriss Gallas Chris@bpaa.com 18-20 BPA of the Carolinas/Georgia Convention Sea Trail Resort, Sunset Beach, NC www.bpacga.com
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C L A S S I F I E D S
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SELL YOUR CENTER
(818) 789-2695
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EQUIPMENT FOR SALE
C L A S S I F I E D S
REPAIR & EXCHANGE. Call for details (248) 375-2751. NEW & USED Pro Shop Equipment. Jayhawk Bowling Supply. 800-2556436 or jayhawkbowling.com. FOR SALE: 32+ lanes AMF SPL + install. Call for quote. 24 lanes Super Helix Steltronic w/ flat screens. 24 lanes Excel Scoring w/ flat screens. Parts out the wazoo! Complete installs/packages available. Contact Knotrite LLC @ (970) 946-9933; knotritellc@gmail.com. CENTER EQUIPMENT PACKAGE – 16 lanes. Includes: A-2s (Japan); 8 ball lifts; Astro furniture; Star shields masking units; AMF bumpers & gutters; Century 300 Silver Streak & Excel 1995 oil machine; rental shoes & color matched balls; Bowl-tronics foul lights. EVERYTHING short of lanes & scoring! Ball drilling machine & all accessories. $30,000 FOB Arkansas. Jeff Montgomery (479) 234-2958.
EQUIPMENT WANTED LANE MACHINES WANTED. We will purchase your KEGEL-built machine, any age or condition. Call (608) 764-1464.
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ITEMS WANTED
C L A S S I F I E D S
“WANTED TO BUY” Older Bowling Shirts. Paying $5 - $25 for button front shirts with embroidery or ink lettering on the back. HicardVintage@gmail.com (434) 4650099.
CENTER FOR SALE KANSAS—SALE OR LEASE: 24 lanes, 5 acres. Owner flexible on terms. Newly remodeled 2011. Serious inquiries only. Email: upyouralley3257@yahoo.com. MINNESOTA: 12-lane center in college town. STRONG revenues. Includes ouside volleyball, bar and 1.15 acres. Contract for deed option. Call (507) 951-7130; email: buckybeeman@me.com. ALABAMA: 30-lane, well-established, profitable center with kitchen, lounge & pro shop. Real estate included. Located in thriving Huntsville. Russ Russell Commercial Real Estate (256) 536-777.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BOWLINGFAN
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CENTER FOR SALE
C L A S S I F I E D S
NEW YORK STATE: Thousand Island region. 8-lane Brunswick center w/ cosmic bowling, auto scoring. Established leagues + many improvements. $309,000. Call Jill @ Lori Gervera Real Estate (315) 771-9302. WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA: One of the top five places to move! Remodeled 32-lane center. Good numbers. $3.1m gets it all. Fax qualified inquiries to (828) 253-0362. GEORGIA: busy 32-lane center, real estate included. Great location in one of fastest growing counties in metro Atlanta. 5 years new with all the amenities. Excellent numbers. Call (770) 356-8751. CENTRAL MINNESOTA: 6-lane center. Owner retiring. $99,900. hartmann@midwestinfo.net. (320) 760-3377.
CENTRAL IDAHO: 8-lane center and restaurant in central Idaho mountains. Small town. Only center within 60-mile radius. Brunswick A-2 machines; Anvilane lane beds; automatic scoring. (208) 879-4448.
SERVICE CALLS WORLDWIDE • PRE-SHIPS • WE SELL
AS80/90 • BOARD REPAIR • Frameworx NEW KEYPADS • FRONT DESK LCD MONITORS
Michael P. Davies (321) 254-7849
291 Sandy Run, Melbourne, FL 32940 on the web: bowlingscorer.com email: mike@bowlingscorer.com
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CENTERS FOR SALE
C L A S S I F I E D S
NE MINNESOTA: Food, Liquor & Bowling. Established 8 lanes between Mpls & Duluth w/ large bar, dining room, banquet area. Two large State employment facilities nearby. High six figure gross. Call Bryan (218) 380-8089. www.majesticpine.com.
AMF • BRUNSWICK EQUIPMENT COMPLETE PACKAGES WORLDʼS LARGEST NEW – USED SPARE PARTS INVENTORY ALL AMF BUMPER PARTS, XS Q-BUMP, DURABOWL AND GEN II IN STOCK
SEL L
BUY
Danny & Daryl Tucker Tucker Bowling Equipment Co. 609 N.E. 3rd St. Tulia, Texas 79088 Call (806) 995-4018 Fax (806) 995-4767
Bowling Parts, Inc. P.O. Box 801 Tulia, Texas 79088 Call (806) 995-3635 Email - daryl@tuckerbowling.com
www.tuckerbowling.com
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EASTERN NORTH DAKOTA: 6-lane Brunswick center, bar & grill, drive-thru liquor store in small college town. Also, 3 apartment buildings with 40 units, good rental history. Call (701) 330-7757 or (701) 430-1490. SOUTHWEST KANSAS: well-maintained 8-lane center, A-2s, full-service restaurant. Includes business and real estate. Nice, smaller community. Owner retiring. $212,000. Leave message (620) 397-5828. 16-lane center in Southern Colorado mountains. Great condition. 18,000 s/f building w/ restaurant & lounge. Paved parking 100 + vehicles. Established leagues & tournaments. $950,000 or make offer. Kipp (719) 852-0155.
CENTERS FOR SALE
C L A S S I F I E D S
CENTRAL ILLINOIS: PRICED TO SELL!! 8-lane center with AMF 82-70s, full service restaurant, pro shop. Plus pool tables, karaoke machine & DJ system. Asking $125,000.00 with RE. (217) 3515152 or toms-uvl@sbcglobal.net. NW KANSAS: 12-lane center, AS-80s, Lane Shield, snack bar, pro shop, game & pool rooms. See pics and info @ www.visitcolby.com or contact Charles (785) 443-3477. MICHIGAN-SOUTH CENTRAL: Large center with late model equipment. Strong league base plus high-volume franchise. RE included. Sandy Hansell (800) 222-9131. SOUTHEAST MISSOURI: 8-lane family owned center w/ snack bar & large game room. 10-year-old AMF equipment. Only center in the county. Email: bowlingcntr@aol.com. Serious inquiries only please. NORTHERN ILLINOIS: Fully remodeled FEC—12 lanes, bar, restaurant, mini golf, go karts, batting cages, big arcade! Huge facility. Big summer business. Busy yearround! 40 years in community. $3.5M. Call (847) 363-8799. GEORGIA, Vadalia: 16-lane center. Low down payment; assume a SBA 4.75% interest loan. Will carry 2nd note on half of down payment. For additional info, fax qualified inquiries to (912) 537-4973 or email lmfastfoods@yahoo.com. MINNESOTA, Duluth: 32 wood lanes with Brunswick automatic scoring and pinsetters, bar & grill, 30,000 s/f on 2+ acres. Good business since 1960. Great location. Steve Bragg CBI Calhoun Companies @ (218) 663-7682 or sbragg@boreal.org.
LEASE/OPTION TO BUY NORTHERN CALIFORNIA (Susanville): 10-lane center with restaurant—14,000 s/f bldg. on 2.35 acre parcel. Flexible terms. Contact Lori Johnson, Lester Company, (831) 722-2741 or lori@lestercompany.
SERVICES AVAILABLE See a list that will help centers fill lanes w/ 1200+New Bowlers, Birthday Parties & Corporate Outings that generate $15,800— a 600% ROI from 4 payments starting at $378. Visit mcprs.bmamkt.com or call (888) 243-0685. IBI
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C L A S S I F I E D S
SERVICES AVAILABLE Drill Bit Sharpening and Measuring Ball Repair. Jayhawk Bowling Supply. 800255-6436 or Jayhawkbowling.com.
"Bowling Center Construction Specialists" New Center Construction Family Entertainment Centers Residential Bowling Lanes Modernization Mini Bowling Lanes Automatic Scoring CONTACT
Toll Free:
BRIAN ESTES
(866) 961-7633
Office: (734) 469-4293 Email: build@capitalbowlingservice.com www.CapitalBowlingService.com
MINIATURE GOLF COURSES Indoor/Outdoor. Portable/Pre-Fab. Black Light/Traditional/Pro Putter. 202 Bridge Street Jessup, PA 18434 570-489-8623 www.minigolfinc.com
LOCKER KEYS FAST! •Keys & Combo Locks for all Types of Lockers. •One week turnaround on most orders. •New locks All types
All keys done by code #. No keys necessary.
•Used locks 1/2 price of new
E-mail: huff@inreach.com FAX YOUR ORDER TO US AT:
530-432-2933
CALL TOLL FREE 1-800-700-4KEY INT’L 530-432-1027 Orange County Security Consultants
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AMF 5850 & 6525 CHASSIS. Exchange your tired or damaged chassis for an upgraded, rewired, cleaned, painted and ready-to-run chassis. Fast turnaround. Lifetime guarantee. References available. CHASSIS DOCTORS (330) 314-8951. CUSTOM INSTALL SPECIALISTS. No job too odd. Parts out the wazoo! Complete installs/packages available. Contact Knotrite LLC @ (970) 946-9933; knotritellc@gmail.com; www.tenpinartisans.com.
MANAGER WANTED Don't miss your chance to grow with an Industry Leader! Looking for Experienced, Service-Oriented General Managers for our U.S. bowling retail center locations. Please check us out at www.brunswickcareers.apply2jobs.c om for more details on our current openings. Act Now! Apply Today!
POSITION WANTED
C L A S S I F I E D S
Accomplished District Manager with unique Operational, Team Building/Leadership and Marketing skills seeking comparable position. Very organized, self-motivated, multi-task master with a “can do” attitude. Open to relocation. Johnmillen@optonline.net; (201) 657-4684.
MECHANIC WANTED Brunswick A-2 mechanic wanted in Northern Virginia. Salary based on experience. Send resume to: Brunswicka2mechanic@gmail.com.
For FLORIDA CENTERS Call DAVID DRISCOLL & ASSOCIATES 1-800-444-BOWL 3800 Lake Center Loop, Suite B1, Mount Dora, FL 32757-2208 AN AFFILIATE OF SANDY HANSELL & ASSOCIATES
PROPRIETORS WITH AMF 82-70 S.S. & M.P. MACHINES Save $$ on Chassis & P.C. Board Exchange & Repair! A reasonable alternative for Chassis and P.C. Board Exchanges
AMF and some BRUNSWICK PC board repair/exchange. 6-month warranty, fast turnaround. Call or write: WB8YJF Service 5586 Babbitt Road, New Albany, Ohio 43054 Toll Free: 888-902-BOWL (2695) Ph./Fax: (614) 855-3022 (Jon) E-mail: wb8yjf@earthlink.net Visit us on the WEB! http://home.earthlink.net/~wb8yjf/
MIKE BARRETT Call for Price List
Tel: (714) 871-7843 • Fax: (714) 522-0576
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BOWLINGFAN
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REMEMBER WHEN
1947 R
ibbons indicate awards and awards symbolize excellence. Pabst Blue Ribbon beer, started in Milwaukee in 1844, was America’s beer. Legend has it that it was awarded “America’s Best” at the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893. Hence, the “Blue Ribbon.” In 1947, the year of this ad, beer and bowling were a team. Men drank beer and men bowled. For those who can remember, take a peek at the ball return behind our all-American guy. No frills there. And, check out the invitation to “tune” in to the Eddie Cantor Show “over” NBC. It took a minute to realize that it was a radio show not a television show. ❖
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In 1947… The Cold War began. The Kon-Tiki Expedition with Thor Heyderdahl completed 4,300 miles across the Pacific Ocean. The then Princess Elizabeth was engaged to Lt. Philip Mountbatten. The Oldsmobile Woody was a new car! Chuck Yaeger broke the sound barrier. Flying saucers were seen in Roswell, NM. And… ABC membership reached 1,259,000; WIBC was 362,779; and there were 5,747 certified bowling lanes.