Ibi july13 complete issue

CONTENTS

VOL 21.7

6 ISSUE AT HAND

50 REMEMBER WHEN

Knowledge is Power

2013 Snoopy Goes Bowling!

By Scott Frager

By Patty Heath

THE WORLD'S ONLY MAGAZINE DEVOTED EXCLUSIVELY TO THE BUSINESS OF BOWLING

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Scott Frager frager@bowlingindustry.com Skype: scottfrager

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Chris Holmes holmes@bowlingindustry.com

OFFICE MANAGER Patty Heath heath@bowlingindustry.com

CONTRIBUTORS

8 NEWS FLASH GoBowling.com partners with NASCAR

52 SPECIAL REPORT 26

Compiled by Patty Heath

The Aftermath of an F5 Tornado in Oklahoma Tony Lanning, GM of Moore AMF Lanes, shares his terrifying tale of surviving THE monster twister.

10 SHORTS

By Mark Miller

54 INDUSTRY NEWS Another New Beginning for USBC?

Compiled by Patty Heath

Hoping to better serve its members, the USBC again changes course.

By Mark Miller 52

Manhattan’s Frames

An urban, nightlife mecca in the middle of Hell’s Kitchen.

57 PROFILE

By Anna Littles

An Insider’s View At Poelking Marian Lanes, Mike and Ellen Poelking proudly unveil their handcrafted VIP lounge, Insiders.

26 COVER STORY

By Fred Groh

Is Uncle Sam Sandbagging YOU? With the jangled mess of federal and state legislation, BPAA’s partner Berman and Company provides clarity on the important issues.

By Kristin Eastlick of Berman and Company

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July 2013

fisher@bowlingindustry.com

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12655 Ventura Boulevard Studio City, CA 91604 (818) 789-2695(BOWL) Fax (818) 789-2812 info@bowlingindustry.com

www.BowlingIndustry.com

HOTLINE: 888-424-2695 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:

60 Datebook 62 Showcase 57

63 Classifieds Cover Art by Kirsten Ushijima

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jackie Fisher

FOUNDER Allen Crown (1933-2002)

• Ed Sousa and Classic Bowl step up for Wounded Warriors in Canada •Bowling strikes a chord for rhinoceroses.

20 CENTER STAGE

Kristin Eastlick of Berman and Company Fred Groh Patty Heath Anna Littles Mark Miller

THE ISSUE AT HAND

Knowledge is Power When a bill or piece of legislation is making Forget whether you might be “for” or “against” a certain piece its way toward the voting floor (local, state or of legislation. Your position may be pro smoking regulations and national), it’s imperative for citizens and soda tax but against minimum wage hikes or restrictions on business owners to know what the legislation arcade merchandisers. What matters is that we are aware of is about and how it may affect businesses, the issues and understand their impact. Only then can we really community and lives. decide what might be best, based on Since we cannot be our own moral compass. totally engaged in the game Knowledge is power. Berman & WHEN IT COMES TO and business of politics, Comany provides the knowledge it’s virtually impossible to allowing us to educate and then arm LOCAL, STATE OR FEDERAL LEGISLATION? stay informed and up-toourselves with the power to decide how WWW.BOWLINGINDUSTRY.COM date on what is happening to react. In two recent cases, Kristen in the halls and back offices Eastlick and Carson Putnam from of our legislative representatives in our own Berman and Company have given California proprietors the community, let alone other states and in the information needed to help engage all member centers in letter nation’s capital. That’s why it really pays to writing campaigns that effectively helped stop, or at least have a group like Berman and Company, a postpone, several pieces of invasive legislation. Kristen and her government affairs group, retained by the team made it so easy that even the busiest business owners could BPAA and sustained by the BPAA Political participate in the process.

Action Committee, to stay on top of any This month’s cover story is dedicated to those who throw legislation that is, or might be, on the agenda themselves into the political mosh pit, of government officials across the country. arming the bowling industry with the One might ask, “Who cares what happens crucial knowledge needed so we may in New York or California? I live and work in then have the power to act together to Kansas.” One needs not look so far back in make change. time to remember the smoking issue, where it started and how it grew in order to get a – SCOTT FRAGER, PUBLISHER sense of how legislation can spread like a AND EDITOR virus across the country. frager@bowlingindustry.com

DO YOU FEEL POWERLESS

INTRODUCING/FIGHTING

THIS MONTH AT www.BowlingIndustry.com SHARE YOUR BOWL EXPO EXPERIENCE Bowl Expo, the time when the industry drops everything and rushes to Vegas, usually, to meet up, participate, buy and/or generally window shop and see what’s new in the world of bowling.

While IBI works hard to bring the show to its readers, let’s throw out a challenge—this year, your eyes, your camera (video or still), your perspective. IBI Online has three perfect spots in which you can “report.” The Forum allows you to share what you were looking for and what you saw. Photos and Videos are great places to post your candid pics and activities covering Expo moments. Do you have photos of reactions to the BIG $100,000 prize winner announcement?

There is no better way to improve an event than by expressing your thoughts. You might be surprised by what can happen when you do.

Let’s make Bowl Expo 2013 come alive, online--performance art at its finest.

JOIN IBI Online & POST! 6

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NEWS FLASH

Building awareness for bowling has taken on new heights. BPAA’s marketing arm, Strike Ten Entertainment (STE), has released details of a two-year agreement between GoBowling.com and Pocono International Raceway (PIR) for title sponsorship of NASCAR Sprint Cup Race in August of 2013 and 2014. Also included in the arrangement is the primary sponsorship of Richard Petty Motorsports’ iconic #43 car featuring driver Aric Almirola. This year’s race is scheduled for August 4 and will be televised LIVE on ESPN. A sponsorship such as this gives great visibility to the sport of bowling. It will drive traffic to GoBowling.com and member bowling centers. It will also enhance synergy between other STE partners, e.g. Pepsi, Miller High Life, Jack Links. Under this umbrella, GoBowling.com receives track signage, Pace Car title sponsor and much more.

PIR is also extending title sponsor rights for its Kids Day and Kids Zone events for all three of its summer weekends in June, July and August. John Harbuck, vice president of Activation & Fulfillment at STE stated, “We will leverage our kids brand “Bowlopolis” for these events and set up mini bowling lanes and give away Bowlopolis themed premiums.” The Bowlopolis Kids Day events treat thousands of needy children to a fun-filled day of bounce houses, face painting and bowling in the special Bowlopolis Pavilion.

The cross promotion of NASCAR and bowling is looked on with great excitement and offers centers in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York great opportunities for leagues and sweepstakes. Bowlers who complete the league, “Join the League and Get in the Race,” will receive a grandstand ticket, race lanyard and race T-shirt. One team from each participating center will win a VIP Race Experience giving access to a Pre-Race Hospitality Tent and a VIP Pit Tour.

A Win/Win might be the best description for the newest STE effort!

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SHORTS

GRANTS CAN ADD TO A STRONGER COMMUNITY Mentor City in northern Ohio lived up to its name by considering and granting economic development grants for businesses that officials said can add to the quality of life in the community. Freeway Lanes which is the sole bowling center in town will receive a $5,000 grant toward the $1.2 million in improvements planned by owner Glenn Gable.

According to Betsy Scott of the News Herald, “the allocation is dependent upon the payroll exceeding $600,000 annually over the next five years” which is anticipated to double once renovations are complete. Presently Freeway Lanes employs 32 people, 17 of them full-time.

The project includes an all-inclusive change from a bowling center to a family entertainment center. There will be laser tag, a pub with outdoor dining, a large game room, a private bowling suite and upgraded parking lot, shared Gable. In making the case for the grant, it was pointed out that bowling centers as well as movie theatres fall under an Ohio admissions tax. The fact that the business pays an annual $20,000 admission tax went a long way toward city administrators’ decision.

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Media

WATCH

APPLE’S KINGPIN LANES STRIKES A CHORD For the more advanced bowlers, Kingpin Lanes is the simulation game to try. It uses the Unreal 3D engine, has impressive, realistic graphics and includes a pro shop. The game is made for iPads and iPhones. According to the PadGadget site, “a swipe on the screen allows you to orient the ball while arrows let you decide where to stand. After choosing a position and an angle, a forward swipe will launch the ball down the lane. No wizards, zombies or wild animals to divert your attention, just straight bowling. Check it out!

THUMBS UP FOR BOWLING Bowling writer Joan Taylor Schliewenz found a little gem in the 2011 film “I Don’t Know How She Does It” which she posted in IBMA on Facebook. Often we see bowling as a vehicle to the quirky, but this was like the porridge of the third little bear—it was just right. But, I’ll let her tell it!

“If you have Netflix or HBO or another resource for watching movies, I highly recommend “I Don’t Know How She Does It” starring Sara Jessica Parker and Pierce Brosnan, among others. While it’s not the next “Gone with the Wind,” there is a delightful bowling scene which portrays our beloved sport in a POSITIVE light, especially when Pierce, in his dress slacks and white shirt says, ‘Bowling is fun!’ Later on they have a power lunch with some financial big shot and are telling him about their fun time bowling. Score one for our side!”

Thanks Joan! Bowling IS fun!

GOODWILL CENTRAL

SHORTS Bowling for Buddies, a fundraising event for Best Buddies International, a group that promotes one-on-one friendships, job opportunities and leadership skills for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, was held at Lucky Strike Lanes in Hollywood, CA, for kids from Rowland High School. Some of the high visibility people attending were Gene Simmons from the rock band KISS, Rob Lowe, Tom Arnold, journalist Maria Shriver and Nancy O’Dell, the host of “Entertainment Tonight.”

In Northfield, MN, April was time to put on bowling shoes and help support Dolly Parton’s program Imagination Library that helps develop early literacy skills by providing free, high-quality books to children ages infants to 5 years. A new, age-appropriate book arrives each month for children and parents to read together.

Jesse James Lanes was the place for Bowling for Books Day. All the proceeds went to help pay for Imagination Library for Northfield area kids; it was sponsored by Young Professionals of the Northfield Chamber of Commerce.

300 Pasadena in Pasadena, CA, held its Kid’s Fest for the surrounding community with an afternoon of free bowling and shoe rental for kids under the age of 12. Besides goodwill and the involvement of other local groups, the event kicked off Summer Kid’s Club, which offers free bowling all summer long to kids that sign up.

Strike Gold Lanes near the Cities of Gold Casino in Pojoaque, NM, was the site for 16 teams of bowlers at Bowl for Kids’ Sake, hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern New Mexico. A fourweekend event, on the first day more than $15,500 was raised.

Clover Lanes in Rochester, NY, was the place to be for the inaugural fundraiser by the Brain Injury Association. Five pilot states, Nebraska, Indiana, Illinois, New York and Missouri, were selected to participate. A shocking statistic is that every 18.5 seconds someone in America suffers a brain injury.

According to Rochester’s Your News Now (YNN), Kaiti Pierce, a NYS Brain Injury Association board member, stated, “We’ve collectively raised over $120,000 for each individual state... We’re really excited. We think we’re gonna (sic) go ahead and do it again next year.” Bowling is a fun, easy way to support a cause.

If you would like to share what your center is doing, please email heath@bowlingindustry.com.

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BPA-PA’S BOWLING FOR WARRIORS The BPA of Pennsylvania visited Harrisburg in June to support two nonprofit, veteran organizations, Keystone Wounded Warriors and Bowlers to Veterans Link. A temporary bowling lane was placed in the East Wing Rotunda of the capitol, and the association pledged to make a donation per legislator who would take a few minutes to roll one bowling ball down the lane.

BPAP President Amy Eiserman of the Palmyra Bowling Center stated prior to the event, “This will be a great opportunity for General Assembly members to meet with constituents from the bowling industry and at the same time, give back to our service men and women who have made many sacrifices so that we can live freely and safely.”

EVERYTHING HAPPENS

AT THE ZOO Believe it or not, zoos love bowling.

Rhinoceroses, especially, have been aided by strikes and spares rolled across the country. Each year, more than 60 American Association of Zookeepers (AAZK) chapters host Bowling for Rhinos, raising more than $200,000 annually since 1990. The AAZK is a non-profit, volunteer organization.

According to the Oregon Zoo organization, this is a critical time for rhinos worldwide. Conservationists estimate that in South Africa alone, a rhinoceros is killed every 15 hours and two of the five rhino species is perilously close to extinction. For 24 years, the Oregon Zoo has held its Bowling for Rhinos fundraiser. This year it was at Sunset Lanes in Beaverton and was dedicated to the memory of rhino conservationist Anna Merz, 82-year-old “mother of rhinos,” who died in May in South Africa. It was her dedication to saving the rhino that helped found the Ngare Sergoi Rhino Sanctuary.

The Detroit chapter was also rallying the troops for its event to help save rhinoceroses “one pin at a time” at Thunderbird Lanes in Troy, MI.

SHORTS

Ed Sousa is not afraid of big events. Last year he inspired Canadian as well as U.S. centers with Knockdown Cancer. This year, with Classic Bowl as home base, the campaign highlights the men and women of the Canadian military raising awareness and funds for Wounded Warriors.

In typical Sousa fashion, every Classic Bowl customer will rent customized camouflage shoes and every staff member will wear customized camouflage uniforms for the entire month of August. Camouflage bowling balls and pins round out the theme, and every bowling team will have a military member bowling with them. At press time, Sousa expected 300 entrants bowling. Along with military personnel and bowling enthusiasts, governmental dignitaries will be present for the launch of the month’s events: Mississauga Mayor Hazel McCallion; Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs Bob Dechert; ministers of Labour, Environment, International Cooperation, Natural Resources and National Defence; and Harinder Takhar, member of the Provincial Parliament.

According to the Mission of the event,” the primary focus is on reservist mental health, the secondary focus on physical health support and tertiary focus on life skills development for all members of the Canadian Forces who have been wounded or injured. In general, the efforts will be allocated as 60% mental health initiative; 30% physical health support; and 10% life skills.”

Launch date is July 27th at Classic Bowl with the world renowned 48th Highlanders of Canada Pipes and Drums performing. We salute Classic Bowl and the efforts of Ed Sousa and his staff.

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SHORTS

EXPANSIONS, OPENINGS & NEW BEGINNINGS

BPAA’S MEDIA AWARD GIVEN TO

It appears that life in the bowling business is continuing to pick up, not only in the development of new facilities but in the reincarnation of older centers stepping up and finding that there really is more business to be had.

Boland Lanes in Andalusia, AL, has new owners, Don and Greg Dupree, and a new name, Strikers.

The two, who own Ft. Walton Beach Bowl, have had their eyes on the property for ten years.

“When we heard (Boland Lanes) was for sale, we jumped on it,” Don said. They also moved quickly to change the operating hours to seven-day-a-week of fun.

Don Dupree shares his and brother “The thing is, we recognize that most people don’t Greg’s plans for Strikers. get off work until 5,” Don said. “We want this facility to be all about family entertainment. If we closed at 6, that wouldn’t work, so we decided to change the hours.”

Change will also come in remodeling inside and out. There will be carpet on the walls to deaden the sound, new tile and later a sports bar for the adults and a patio out in the back for summer use. Front and center for the Duprees will be leagues.

“We want those leagues in here, playing,” Don said. “By changing the hours, it gives more play time to everyone.” And, he knows what he’s talking about. Don has been a PBA member since 1995 and has won five various PBA titles.

Revolutions Entertainment Center in Barstow, CA, will be opening this summer under the new ownership of Bonnie and Alex Hernandez and Paula Vidak, all avid, professional bowlers, and with a new name, Revolutions Barstow Bowl. The original center closed in 2011 during the economic downturn.

The new owners will be focusing on getting back to basics—bowling. Customers will find resurfaced lanes and new screens and revamped machines. The food will be more finger food, hamburgers, hot dogs and pizza and affordable. The goal is to make it a place for people to come have a beer and watch a football game or bring the family and bowl.

Main Event Entertainment is no stranger to high-end family fun centers. In conjunction with Brunswick, a new facility has recently opened in Stafford, TX. According to a Brunswick Bowling press release, the new 56,000-square-foot facility will be the fourth Main Event location in the Houston area and the 12th location overall.

What patrons can expect is 24 lanes of state-of-the-art Brunswick bowling along with billiards, an indoor ropes course and more than 100 virtual and interactive games as well as multiple dining options—a one-stop family entertainment venue.

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In the past, the prestigious BPAA Media Award, acknowledging contributions to the sport and business of bowling through either print or electronic media, has gone to outlets such as ESPN, Good Morning America and the Ellen DeGeneres Show.

This year Maple Family Centers, a chain of five bowling centers covering Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island, New York, has been recognized, making it the first proprietor to win the award.

Maple Family Center’s portable bowling lane has been featured in two segments of the Rachael Ray Show, one raising money for Feeding America and the other to plug Steve Carrel’s movie, ”The Incredible Burt Wonderstone.” The company has hosted BVL tournaments for the past three years, and the centers and their bowlers have collectively raised over $100,000 for Bowlers to Veterans Link. Adding to its altruism, Maple Family Centers has had six events since Hurricane Sandy to raise relief money.

Over the last few years, this family-owned chain has been actively involved in charity, and their events have totaled more than $500,000 for local charities.

“We are honored to be receiving the BPAA media award this year,” says John LaSpina, president of Maple Family Centers.

“You never know the impact bowling has when presented in an unusual venue [such as the portable lane on television]. Bowling’s appeal is vast, and we are proud to do our part to let every community know the joy of our lifetime sport,” said LaSpina.

SHORTS

REMEMBRANCES IBI would like to acknowledge the passing of fellow bowling industry members who have, in one way or another, helped make our industry a better place.

Lauren Jareczkea The Zikes family who own and operate Beverly Lanes in Arlington Heights, IL, have shared the loss of Lauren Jareczek, league coordinator, sister to Lyle Zykes, wife of the center’s technical engineer, Mark and mother to Cathy Kipp and Roxanne Brod, all of whom work at Beverly Lanes. At the age of 54, while attending her granddaughter’s fifth birthday party, Lauren was struck with a fatal heart attack.

The family is asking that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) in Lauren’s memory.

Ramig’s wife, that Jerry passed away October 19, 2012 in Clinton, IA. He was 79.

Jerry was a past president of the Clinton Bowling Association and a member of the Clinton and Iowa Halls of Fame. He was a long-time member of the BWAA/IBMA and a Council of Life member. Jerry wrote the bowling page in the Clinton Herald and reported local bowling scores with his Spare Time program on KROS. His activities went well beyond bowling and was involved in the local school board, played in the city band, and played taps for over 400 military funerals to name just a few.

Mary Stubler Leon Laster Bowling and Billiard Supply of Dallas has lost its general manager and larger-than-life personality Leon Lasater. Gregg Pasdiora, president of NAIR shared Leon’s dedication to his job and bowling in general. “Leon was one of a kind for sure. The business of bowling will never be the same without him,” he said. Leon leaves his companion and soul mate of 18 years, Judy Martin and his brother G.R. Lasater.

Jerry Ramig The IBMA received a note from Delores, Life Member Jerry

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Mary Stubler, matriarch of the Stubler family, passed away on June 2 at 92 years of age from complications from a stroke. Mary was the widow of Rudy Stubler, Illinois State BPA president from 1987 to 1989 and mother of Jim, Bob and Donnie. Jim Stubler was president of ISBPA from 2001 to 2004, making Rudy and Jim the first two-generation state presidents in ISBPA history. Jim was also a former BPAA director representing Illinois and is currently a director for Strike Ten Entertainment. Brother Bob serves as Secretary of ISBPA now. Expressing the thoughts of many friends and colleagues, Bill Duff, executive director of ISBPA, shared, “Our sympathy, thoughts and prayers go out to the Stubler family.”

CENTER STAGE

can u o y , y t i rk C o Y w e N in rds a s i l e l i m b a r o t F At ling w o b m o ll, fr a t i e v ing. a c h n a d o t to dining les M. Litt

By Anna

icture walking into a lavish venue with a living gallery that features black and white photos titled the “Fantasy Party,” an exhibit that is the work of fashion photographer Yanick Dery. The photos beckon you to unwind and flow with the beat of dance music. A delectable menu awaits, it’s after work and it’s time to play!

This is New York City, the greatest city in the world, and this is Frames. Frames' marketing director Frayda Resnick gave a brief history: the building has been around for over 50 years and has had many different names. About two years ago it was renovated and made its New York City debut as Frames.

Located in the heart of New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen, Frames is not your ordinary bowling center - nor is it just a trendy club. Resnick describes it this way, “It's high brow meets low brow meets high art.

It is the neighborhood place that’s as much a bowling center by day as it is a night life destination.” How can a business cover this much territory? Great planning and a commitment to serve its average ordinary community. That’s how!

Frames is the go-to place for mid-town corporate business events which is the bulk of its revenue. Companies find it a great after-work environment for team building and networking. It does a strong league business as well. Children, families, and teens make good use of the bowling center by day, with the rest of the business being private parties and media events such as cable network channel BRAVO airing live shows and promoting

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premieres. Celebrities, too, are comfortable enjoying the space with VIP service in a private area.

Just as impressive is Frames' impact on the community. The center often hosts charitable events and fund raisers that benefit Junior Achievement, a large, non-profit organization that provides programs that help youth learn and become successful in business. Yanick Dery, Frames photographer/artist in resident, sells all of the photographs he exhibits at Frames. With each art work sold, proceeds go to UNICEF which is another organization with whom Frames has partnered.

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PRWEB.com recently reported how Frames handles its tradition of helping the community. While New York City was experiencing a mini heat wave, Frames took advantage of the rising heat index to show New Yorkers a little bit of love.

PRWeb.com wrote, “They set up a makeshift water station, and handed out hundreds of cold bottles of water to locals rushing by. From corporate executives on their way to meetings, parents strolling the city with their kids, employees out to pick up a quick lunch, and even the occasional delivery guy or cabdriver leaning out of his moving vehicle, Frames found a way to rack up some major points with locals in an effort to help people deal with the oppressing heat.�

The Frames branded water bottles were a tremendous hit, and they quickly ran out of the dozens of cases they had moved to the sidewalk for the ad-hoc cooling station Along with the water, Frames gave out sunglasses and cards featuring one hour free bowling at Frames.

CENTER STAGE While New York is notoriously one of the most expensive cities in the world, Frames is able to provide a reasonable price point and packages which make it accessible to most everyone.

The day rates Monday through Friday start at $7 per hour, and then after 5pm go up to $10.50. In addition, Frames offers package deals: “Work Hard/Play Hard” starts at $19.95 and includes a drink, a game of bowling and shoe rentals; the

“Night Owl” package offered at $29.95 is similar but offers two hours of bowling. There are more packages to choose from for groups and events. The after-work crowd flocks to Frames to relax before they head home. And for those who really want to enjoy a full night out, Frames is the go-to place for date night, fine dining and entertainment. Food service at Frames is Zagat rated. According to Resnick, "We have a wonderful chef who has created a beautiful menu. He is phenomenal!" Resnick goes on to say that, “Sometimes people come for dinner first, and then stay to bowl. Most of the time people prefer to be served by their lanes – so lane side service is important.” The bowling center has 28 lanes, each with its own high-def TV while two of those lanes are dedicated VIP lanes. Weekends host the dance crowd who gravitate to the lounge where people can jam to either live music or a visiting DJ pumping top 40 Billboard Hits with the occasional R& B, as the crowd dictates.

The newest addition to Frames is the billiard room, The Cue. It's yet another area that can offer open play, or the space can be reserved for private parties. By creating packages specifically for the billiards room, Frames bets on bringing in more business.

Whether benefiting youth, the community or serving up a great night out on the town, Frames is the entertainment destination where the heart and soul of New York City comes alive. ❖

Anna M. 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 www.alittleLA.com.

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COVER STORY

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COVER STORY Consider the following ways that lawmakers have introduced and enacted policies that affect your operations:

Employers Work to Adjust to Affordable Care Act Regulations One of the most contentious topics among business owners in the last few years has been the implementation of President Obama’s healthcare overhaul. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was signed into law in 2010, and most provisions are scheduled to be fully implemented by the start of next year. The law requires employers of more than 50 full-time employees (or enough parttime employees who do the work of 50 full-timers) to provide affordable healthcare coverage to their full-time employees.

ACA’s implementation has experienced considerable resistance, primarily from Republican lawmakers. In particular, many GOP governors across the country have elected for their states to not run their own insurance exchanges, forcing the federal government to do it for them. Health insurance exchanges are marketplaces in each state where small businesses and individuals can compare and choose insurance policies. Coverage through these exchanges is scheduled to begin on January 1 of next year, with enrollment beginning in October of this year.

While “large” employers face the greatest number of regulations and changes, there are some provisions that affect smaller employers. Some small businesses with fewer than 25 employees may be eligible to take advantage of Small Business Health Care Tax Credits. Employers of (generally) 50 or fewer workers will

Art by shijima U Kirsten

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COVER STORY have access to the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP). SHOP gives those employers increased purchasing power in order to obtain improved health coverage at a lower cost. All employers must notify their staff of the basic healthcare rules and how to obtain coverage from the exchange – but the federal government hasn’t yet released guidelines to tell employers how to provide that information. Expect an avalanche of information to be released over the summer.

For bowling proprietors, the provisions and mandates within ACA are exceptionally complex and vary per employer. If you offer coverage, you should consult your benefit provider for guidance in applying the regulations to your situation. Employers not offering coverage should consult with their tax advisors to determine the best course of action.

Activists Set Their Sights on Food and Beverage Taxes and Regulations While the allure of bowling brings customers into the centers, most of them also like to enjoy a snack or a soda during their outing. Unfortunately, lawmakers around the country are looking to tax these items as an additional source of government revenue. And for many bowling centers, facing an additional tax can mean a decrease in sales when bowlers decide to cut back on their orders or stop visiting the centers altogether.

The number of legislative proposals to impose taxes on these food and beverage items has steadily increased during the last few sessions. In particular, soft drinks remain the target of choice for many legislators. This

year, policymakers in eleven states (Connecticut, Hawaii, Mississippi, Vermont, California, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas, West Virginia, Nebraska, and Maine) have considered—or are still considering—bills that would increase taxes on soda. Many of these bills are re-introductions from previous sessions, but each year the proposals gain a bit more momentum. Antisoda activists frame the conversation around the obesity epidemic and submit condemning testimony at committee hearings when the bills are considered.

In Vermont, the House Health Care Committee received extensive Shortly after Bloomberg’s testimony accusing sugary beverages proposal was announced, the of uniquely impacting obesity, and Berman and Company-managed the committee eventually approved Center for Consumer Freedom took the bill. In Hawaii, numerous legislators out a full-page ad in the New York continue to introduce a flurry of soda Times comically portraying “Nanny Bloomberg.” tax bills each year, which have been backed by the governor as a method of reducing obesity. None has passed yet.

In New York City, Mayor Michael Bloomberg infamously fought to prohibit the purchase of most large-sized sugary beverages. The debate over the city’s soda ban attracted the national spotlight, as well as the ire of many businesses, New Yorkers, and Americans.

According to an AP/NORC Center for Public Affairs Research poll conducted in late 2012, three out of four Americans opposed bans

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COVER STORY such as New York City’s. In the end, a New York State Supreme Court Judge ruled against the mayor’s controversial soda ban, which was set to take effect within 24 hours of the judge's ruling.

Some state legislators pinpoint snack foods such as pretzels, chips, crackers or nuts to tax. Similar to soft drinks, they claim that increasing costs to purchase foods that they deem unhealthy will discourage consumption and thus lower obesity rates. The idea is that the items sold at the snack bars and vending machines at your bowling center would cost more to stock, likely forcing you to pass along the fee to your customers.

Despite the continued efforts to demonize soda and snack foods, the general public and voters have expressed their opposition to such a tax. According to a poll released in April and conducted by Harris Interactive/HealthDay, almost 60 percent of Americans oppose soda and candy taxes. In addition, the majority of respondents also agreed that such taxes would not help to reduce obesity.

Last November, activists in the two California cities of Richmond and El Monte took an alternate route to tax soda. The municipalities, via ballot initiatives took the issue directly to voters, who overwhelmingly rejected the tax. The sponsor of the Richmond proposal, Dr. Jeff Ritterman, stated that "We lost the election, but the movement will eventually win." Ritterman hopes that by next year, at least 14 localities will push for a tax on soda.

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Legalese: To Swipe or not to Swipe Swipe fees, those amounts retailers must pay to banks and credit card companies when consumers make a credit or debit card purchase, are a thorny issue. It is interesting to note that the U.S. has the highest volume of credit card transactions in the world, AND its financial institutions charge the highest fees to merchants for the ease of accepting plastic.

A settlement was reached last year between credit card companies and merchants, giving retailers the option to charge customers a direct credit card surcharge of 1.5 to 3% to cover processing costs. The fee, which took effect in January, only applies to credit cards, exempting customers who choose to pay with debit cards. Judges and lawyers are still sorting out the details. While this is a federal issue, state lawmakers are taking credit card regulation into their own hands.

Twelve states (California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Kansas, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah) already prohibit retailers from charging consumers a surcharge for using credit cards. This year, 2013, an additional 16 states (Arkansas, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Vest Virginia) filed legislation to enact similar laws.

According to Berman and Company, “even though many large retailers have indicated they are unwilling to pass four percent of their swipe fees along to customers, merchants continue to oppose state laws banning the practice. These laws eliminate options for many retailers, arguably giving credit card companies even more of an upper hand in the battle over swipe fee rates.”

While states want to protect consumers from being penalized when paying with credit cards, state regulators are open to rules that allow merchants to provide incentives for customers who choose an alternative form of payment. Many of the states considering bills to ban merchant surcharges have included allowances for alternative payment incentives.

However it goes, merchants and consumers stand in the line of fire.

COVER STORY

Higher Labor Costs through New Minimum Wage and Paid Sick Leave Laws The minimum wage has been one of the most popular and highprofile issues facing federal and state lawmakers this year. President Obama started off the year by calling for a $9 per hour federal minimum wage rate in his State of the Union address to Congress.

While his proposal was praised by labor activists, Democrats in Congress proposed legislation to raise the rate even higher—to $10.10 per hour. The legislation was quickly rejected by the Republican-controlled House, since there is no real momentum to pass a federal minimum wage increase this year. The voter-friendly topic will continue to be debated for the next two years, however, since Democrats have already announced their intention to campaign on the issue in 2014.

At the state level, more than half of all states introduced legislation to increase their state minimum wage rates this year.

Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey are the only states to pass a wage increase as of press time. Connecticut will raise the state's $8.25 starting wage to $9 by 2015 in two steps, while New York will increase their rate to $9 per hour in three stages. New Jersey voters will decide this fall whether to increase their minimum wage to $8.25 and increase it annually based on inflation in November.

Governor Chris Christie (R) vetoed a wage hike late last year, so the Democrat-controlled General Assembly approved a constitutional amendment that must be passed by voters to take effect. New Mexico’s Republican governor vetoed a similar wage hike in March.

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Wage increases have stalled in other legislatures, including Democrat-controlled Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota and West Virginia. Lawmakers in California and Massachusetts meet in year-round legislative session and continue to consider bills to hike their state minimum wages.

While minimum wage increases have received much more national attention and state-level legislative action, paid sick leave has been more successful at the local level. No legislation to mandate sick leave has passed from committee at the state level this year, but two cities are poised to impose sick leave requirements on employers. Portland, Oregon passed a sick leave mandate earlier this year that will take effect on January 1, 2014. New York City is close to enacting a less-strict mandate that will begin phasing in a sick leave requirement for larger employers next year. Similar legislation was vetoed

by Philadelphia’s mayor. The attention paid to these issues will only continue.

New Alcohol Taxes Attempt to Raise Money and Change Behavior Despite intense efforts by activists, state lawmakers have not been receptive to proposals increasing alcohol taxes. Minnesota’s House passed a dramatic hike on alcohol excise taxes, but the tax was not supported by the Senate or governor. Nearly a dozen other states introduced alcohol tax hikes, but failed to move them through committee. To

COVER STORY bolster their future chances of success, public health advocates continue to produce research calling for higher alcohol taxes to curb underage drinking and alcohol abuse.

Cougar Lanes tries to Spare its Customers Safety is an issue in any sport, and bowling is no exception. It is hard to imagine that shoes can be the cause of injury for the customer and litigation for the center, but they are. With legislation moving forward in New York state, Cougar Lanes in Honeoye Falls is proactively trying to “spare” themselves and their customers grief.

Manager Mike Kime has posted warnings on the video monitors on each lane pointing out that customers can risk injury if they don’t follow rules like wearing the right shoes and staying behind the line. In regard to legislation pending in the New York Assembly that would require specific warning signs at the entrance and exits at every bowling alley, Kime said, “I thought this is the government going nuts again on something stupid but after looking at it more, it is more of a liability law.”

Kime said he repeatedly reminds customers of the hazards.

The shoes are meant to be slippery, and they stop on a dime. “I probably had four girls walk out because [they were] using a cell phone.“ When it is raining or snowing, it can be a dangerous proposition. Even with the prompts, people still ignore the warnings. “This bill is maybe one way to get a little bit of the responsibility off of us,” Kime said.

“Slip and Fall” Liability Limits Help Protect Center Owners In some cases, legislation can work to protect an industry. Just like other business owners, bowling center operators can be subject to expensive lawsuits for a wide range of issues. Specific to bowling centers, proprietors may face a civil liability case due to a patron having a "slip and fall" accident while wearing bowling shoes. Over the last few years, state lawmakers have positively reacted to these incidents by enacting civil liability measures to protect bowling center proprietors. Unfortunately, the success rate of passing these common sense measures has been an uphill battle.

The language varies slightly from state to state, but for the most part the bills require bowling center operators to post a notice in their centers as a disclaimer that bowlers should not wear their bowling shoes outside or else be at risk of slipping or falling.

Fortunately, Illinois state lawmakers passed the “Bowling Center Act” that went into effect in 2010, while Michigan approved a similar bill that went into effect the following year.

During the 2013 state legislative sessions, New York state lawmakers have introduced three “slip and fall” bills, and Indiana has introduced a similar one. In 2012, the Pennsylvania House approved one of these types of proposals, but the measure stalled and died in a Senate committee.

If you’re interested in how future legislation can affect your business, visit the Legislative section of www.MyBPAA.com, BPAA’s members-only information center. Or contact Kristen Eastlick at Berman and Company, BPAA’s government affairs consultants, at eastlick@bermanco.com. ❖

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REMEMBER WHEN

N E TH NOW & d the last n u o r a g in kirt ummer is s ring. It brings with f sp vestiges o activities r o o d t u o ns, a t re e . r it vacatio e d n u g eadin and lazy r u’re a kid, o y n e h w y , especiall It’s for fun at heart?! s id k ll a e w ometimes S . h t n and aren’t o m pick this ry. Enjoy! ❖ Here’s my a s s e c e n ation is no explan pywrite

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REMEMBER WHEN

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SPECIAL REPORT

By Mark Miller tanding in the middle of what used to be a 40-lane bowling center and his office near the Interstate 35 frontage road in Moore, OK, Tony Lanning described the damage that still existed nearly three weeks later. “From our parking lot you can turn 360 degrees and can't see anything not destroyed,” said the AMF district manager. “There was a medical center across from us. Nearby was a post office, a credit union, mortgage company and a bank. It hit about a half-mile on either side of us.”

It was a category F5 tornado that ripped through the Oklahoma City suburb at 3:24 p.m. on May 20 with winds in excess of 200 miles per hour. In its path was AMF Moore, a facility that had served area residents since the late 1970s. While 24 people in Moore lost their lives and hundreds of others were injured, none was located at the bowling facility. That's because the small number of customers evacuated early.

“It was a very slow day,” Lanning recalled. “The winter leagues were done, and we already had canceled the summer leagues [due to bad weather]. Open play was about normal for a Monday afternoon. We had probably a dozen lanes being used. We knew the day before that we might have some bad weather. We didn't have to evacuate our guests because the Oklahoma City people are very attuned to the weather here. They had been watching the weather and easily got out.”

While Lanning and two other employees didn't leave quite so early, they did eventually escape by hopping onto I-35 and driving about three miles south from where they could see the twister wreaking its havoc.

“We were watching the weather to see if it might go around us,” Lanning said. “Before we knew it, it was starting to come here. We left about four to seven minutes before it hit. We should have left earlier as we had about 15 minutes warning. Oklahoma City has probably the best weather forecasters in the world. We knew it was coming up Interstate 44 southwest of us and was heading east-northeast. It was heading northeast, then turned to the east and started heading right toward us. That's when we decided to evacuate.”

Once he deemed it safe to return, what Lanning and the others initially found was a totally ruined facility, except for lane 40 where a full rack of pins was perfectly intact. By the time he snapped a

S

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After

picture with his telephone, the 7 pin had finally fallen. “We're thankful nobody was hurt,” Lanning said. “You don't normally ask for an empty bowling center but that's one time [that you do].”

While the center's insurance company and a salvage contractor were on the scene within two hours, little could be done until inspectors checked for asbestos which was not found in the semi-modern facility.

Also, two area water mains had to be shut off to stop a flood of water from the center's sprinkler system. Once everything was cleaned up, the demolition could begin in early June.

Lanning said it likely would be after final insurance information is received in July or August before any decision is made whether to rebuild or not. In the meantime, one of the main goals is to help find the 750 fall/winter league bowlers new homes.

“Most summer leagues already have switched to (AMF) Windsor (about 17 miles to the northwest) while a few aren't coming back,” Lanning said.

“We'd love to have them all bowl in AMF centers but the bigger thing is we want them to stay in bowling. We can't as an industry afford to lose them. If that means they bowl with our competitors, that's okay.”

AMF also is trying to help as many employees as possible find jobs within the chain or take care of them in other ways. “We hope we retain as many people as possible,” he said. “We'll do whatever we can to make the joblessness as painless as possible. The next closest center is 17 miles away. We'll do what we can to find everyone a position.”

Lanning quickly relocated his district office to AMF Yukon near his home but had another scare about two weeks later when tornadoes again came nearby. Fortunately, nothing directly hit the Windsor or Yukon centers, or AMF Dick Weber Lanes in St. Louis, but customers were evacuated and the centers lost power for between 18 and 48 hours.

“It has not been a fun 14 days,” said Lanning, who until May 20 had overseen 10 centers. “Now it's nine and a pile of rubble.” ❖

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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INDUSTRY NEWS

AN IDENTITY CRISIS? USBC attempts to return to its original focus as our sport's national governing body.

By Mark Miller

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tournament players but also casual bowlers and those who hen we last featured the United States just want to join USBC.” Bowling Congress, it had changed its focus Fletcher then outlined how the new mission and vision from overseeing the sport as the United States differed from the old. “Our old vision focused on the Olympic Committee-designated national individual, while the new vision focuses on serving the needs governing body to creating programs and services that of bowling,” she said. “Also we felt the new vision gives a clear enhance the membership experience and create lifelong goal of how we want USBC to be defined. The previous bowlers. Promoting membership and its perks and the vision of creating lifelong bowlers – a desired outcome – can potential revenue from increasing the number of people still be a result under our new vision. who join USBC were clearly major reasons why.

“Our new plan is the road map by which we’ll guide But just two years later, at the 2013 USBC Convention in Reno, ourselves to answer our big questions, identify problems, with the organization revealed “new” mission and vision statements the result being solutions. Our next step in the process is similar to its original charge in 2005. Instead of focusing on examining key factors that USBC must address in order to membership, USBC has returned to its NGB roots. achieve those results – to be the leading authority, servicing The reasons for the changes were spelled out by USBC the needs of bowling as a great NGB. As part of that process director Libbi Fletcher, chair of the Strategic Planning we are looking at how USBC can deliver services of value to Committee. “What we do better than anyone else is being the sport at the highest level. This includes looking at the the national governing body of bowling,” Fletcher told the needs of different membership segments, our industry delegates. “This is where our primary focus must be. I suspect partners and opportunities to generate new revenue.” many of you believe our work as an NGB is what we currently The new mission states: “USBC is the national governing do best, from research and testing, body for bowling. Our mission is to provide services, resources to running championship events, and standards for the sport.” The new vision is: “To be the coaching and rules leading authority to the sport, servicing the needs of bowling.” expertise. USBC is USBC also added a strategic promise that doing good work in states: “Celebrate the past, be mindful of these areas and is in a the present, and ensure bowling's future position to do better to Libbi through thoughtful research, planning eventually be a great NGB. Fletcher and delivery.” The promise expounds But to be a great NGB we on USBC's four core values – need to execute at a high commitment, innovation, integrity and level and focus on our core inclusiveness. competencies. Membership “What we do better than In short, USBC will protect and support will continue to be critical anyone else is being the nurture the sport with a mutual for USBC. Moving forward we are national governing body admiration and respect for all who looking for ways to broaden the enjoy bowling. “Please note that support to include not only of bowling.” while we have amended our plan traditional league bowlers and 54

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“You can't ignore the 80% of bowlers who are recreational bowlers.”

and are proud of the decisions Gary Forman we've made, no problems have been solved yet,” Fletcher said.

“What we have so far is an honest assessment of what works and what doesn't work. Our new plan is a road map by which we'll use to guide ourselves to answer the questions, identify the problems and find solutions. USBC will look at how it can provide services at the highest level including looking at the needs of different membership segments, partners and different ways to generate revenue. We'll also evaluate the organizational structure and delivery system for more efficiencies.”

While proprietors like Gary Forman of Fountain Bowl in Fountain Valley, CA, agree with the need for USBC to be a good NGB, he worries that too many bowlers will be left behind. “You can't ignore the 80 percent of bowlers who are recreational bowlers,” Forman said. Though some proprietors are upset at USBC moving its minor awards from the national to the local level, Forman isn't one of them. As the president of the Orange County USBC, he understands the reasons why.

“Maybe doing a local awards program and giving it to the local associations with people who can best deliver such a program is for the best,” he said.

What irked Forman was the USBC delegates failing to pass legislation that would have given the local association boards of directors control over setting local dues in order to manage local awards programs. Because the action would have amended the USBC bylaws, it needed a 2/3 majority vote and it came up just 10 votes short of passing.

USBC spent much time and effort trying to explain the reasons why non-honor score awards were being moved to the local associations. While USBC executive director Stu Upson told the delegates the move would save $800,000 annually, president Andrew Cain said that wasn't a major consideration. “We're aware this has been a difficult topic,” Cain said. “Without the right context, decisions can be extremely confusing. Change isn't easy and nobody had an expectation that the decision would be easily embraced. As I mentioned earlier, change often destroys things that are

familiar. There can be an empty feeling. Nationally, we provide many services to the bowlers and bowling [industry], both tangible and intangible that often are overlooked or are not as powerful because we've devoted significant time and resources in the search for the perfect awards program. We didn't arrive at this decision for a costsavings approach. We arrived at it with an approach that considered our future, bowling's future.” Cain

Stu Upson

“One of USBC's biggest challenges is to figure out ways to thrive rather than just survive as is currently happening.”

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INDUSTRY NEWS

goes on to explain the reasoning for the changes, “We identified that people go bowling and join USBC because their friends, their parents, their grandparents asked them to. Maybe it was safer than playing rugby. But they bowl simply because they love to bowl. We recognized that in some areas, awards remain important. But the truth is the grass roots, our volunteer leaders, are the best resource we have for that effort. There's no such thing as a perfect awards program and having the ability to make flexible decisions for an association's business and membership should be with those who have the most direct access to the bowler. This is a period of transition, and we are committed to helping in any way necessary.”

A printed report from Karl Kielich, chair of the Awards and Recognition committee, expanded on the concept, “The Awards and Recognition committee had the additional responsibility to review the membership awards product,” Kielich said. “We

“WORKING WITH PROPRIETORS” Seminars at USBC Conference TOPIC: Tournaments Developing a business plan for what the local association tournament can bring to a center might entice a proprietor to host one. “There's a long history of association tournaments going to the lowest bid,” said Losito, proprietor at Sun Valley Lanes. “You get what you pay for.” To attract centers to host tournaments, Losito suggested associations should think over offering a flat rate. USBC is considering putting together a package to guide proprietors on tournament management.

John Losito

TOPIC: MEMBERSHIP Another seminar called “The Membership Question” provided ideas on how associations and proprietors can work together to create more involved bowlers. A droppedbowler focus group study conducted by USBC found the main reasons bowlers quit the sport are: (1) length of commitment, (2) no personal improvement and (3) financial challenges and league politics. Seminar attendees were urged to recruit past members through social media and email marketing. Additional ideas included signage throughout the community and meeting with non-certified leagues. USBC associations can provide lists of former members.

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“For the first time in a long time we will have more youth in 2012-13 than in 2011-12.”

Frank Wilkinson

acknowledged that our current special achievement awards program is not adding significant benefit for the majority of our bowlers. Through our review process, the committee realized that USBC National cannot sufficiently meet the needs of our bowlers when it comes to awards. The committee recommended, and the USBC board approved, a proposal that beginning with the 20142015 bowling season, USBC National no longer will set criteria or provide special achievement awards (bag tags and lapel pins). A primary consideration for this decision is that local associations often know their bowlers better and will have the flexibility.”

One great piece of news was delivered by Frank Wilkinson, chair of the USBC Youth Committee and proprietor of Rab's Country Lanes on Staten Island, NY, “For the first time in a long time we will have more youth in 2012-13 than in 2011-12,” Wilkinson said. “We will have more youth members than the previous year.”

Wilkinson said the youth programs being instituted by USBC and the Bowling Proprietors' Association of America are promising though the ultimate results may take quite awhile. “We're trying to create a new generation of bowlers,” he said. “It may not begin to show the results for 20 to 25 years when our current kids have kids and create a new generation of bowlers.”

Upson said one of USBC's biggest challenges is to figure out ways to thrive rather than just survive as is currently happening. He and the other leaders hope that will happen by focusing USBC on its role as an NGB. ❖

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.

PROFILE

By Fred Groh

AN

INSIDER’S

ADVANTAGE

Mike and Ellen Poelking complete a gutsy remodel for their VIP lanes, and that’s only the beginning!

O

ne of Mike Poelking’s bowlers said to him the other day, “You guys are like proud parents.” The bowler meant Mike and his wife, Ellen, who is general manager of the center they own, Poelking Marian Lanes in Huber Heights (Dayton), OH. They are, and they should be, after the February opening of Insiders, a boutique module in their now 60-lane house. The eight-lane, 5,000square-foot suite features stainless steel returns from Brunswick and lanes with a cherrywood laminate the company introduced recently, custom masking that shows the Dayton skyline, and drop-down screens for projection TV audio and video programming.

Hand-crafted wooden beams jut out above the bar for accent and for future branding. Display cases flanking a cozy fireplace include memorabilia of Mike’s father, Jerry, who built the center in 1976, bowling balls from years ago (an undrilled Manhattan rubber is one of them), pins, “300” rings, even one of Mark Roth’s bowling balls.

“When you come into this room, you never have to leave because your bowling balls are here, your shoes are here, and we can do everything for you,” says Mike.

Business meetings get the same treatment. A conference room just off the suite is equipped with furniture, projector, screen, and all the necessary data cables (in the wall).

The Poelkings decided to make their bowlers part of the re-mod, according to Mike. That includes the 1,500 league players. “We always had the doors open.

They wanted to see what was going on. [Now] I’ve got burly men who drink a 12-pack of beer every night, and they come in and use the words ‘fuzzy’ and ‘warm’.”

“They’re all excited, proud of their center. It’s their home, we’re making improvements, and they are with us!” Ellen adds.

She reports even more hoopla.

“When we started we thought about advertising and we’re not even there yet because we’re getting so overwhelmed with responses. People are coming in trying to think of a way to have a party, not a party in mind—‘We’ve got to have a party!’”

Branding Insiders as “your club for the night,” Ellen will invite a prospect to pay a visit. “‘Can you come up? Can I show it to you?’ As soon as they walk in, they’re sold.”

Insiders is the second phase of a year-long remod of the house that began late last July on what Mike calls the traditional side of the center: new public lanes, masking and carpet.

Phase one also included a laser maze attraction that Mike describes to customers IBI

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PROFILE as a “Mission Impossible-type” game in which players dodge laser beams; the maze is about 15x25 feet inside the building.

The boutique and one set of restrooms redone to complement Insiders were phase two of the project. With a target completion date of this Aug. 1, phase three will see revamped entryways and a remodeled bar on the traditional side of the center and facilities for an enhanced food operation.

“We knew if we built this room we would have to do better with the food,” Mike offers.

“We have great hamburgers and grilled cheese, but you have to have something a little nicer, you have to upscale that menu. To do that we have to increase the size and functionality of the kitchen.”

Along with it, he hopes to put in an outdoor grilling area seating about 20. The Poelkings got the idea from an uptrend in the area: trucks out and about, fixing meals on the go.

“My thought was to have an upscale grilling option outside. Mainly I was hoping we could get the lunch business. We could be outside cooking and having cars pull up.”

But he also liked the idea of “couples’ night” on Fridays when customers could pick a steak, a cut of chicken or salmon perhaps, and grill it themselves.

“An area north of here in Ohio [does] something like this and they’re really successful. They’re a vineyard, I believe; I’ve just heard about it.”

“Just hearing” is enough to start the Poelking minds turning. Says Ellen, “We’re both workaholics. We’re here all day; all night we’re lying in bed shooting ideas off at each other.”

“It’s all about trying to give people different options and different things to do—different things to offer different people,” in Mike’s view.

That goes for more than bowling.

Mike is a third-generation proprietor. His son, Dennis, 22 and a recent graduate from college, is learning the business at the reception desk. Daughter Jennifer, 31, worked at the center for 15 years, the last three or four running the F&B, which includes the coffee shop. Now, expansion of a sort is underway there.

“A motto my wife and I live by is to build well for the family, to help your children.” Jennifer, he says, is “a great worker and a great person, and we wanted to get her maybe moving on.” Studying several business models, the Poelkings decided on a Jimmy

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PROFILE John’s sub franchise.

The 1,600-square-foot store is in Troy, about 20 minutes away. They opened it last May 29.

Mike says he and his wife want to build the business to three or four stores, then turn things over to Jennifer to decide where she wants to go with it. He says they get firm backing from the Jimmy John’s company, including “business coaches” who come to the store every 4-6 weeks to spend the day and critique operations. Franchisees have to meet performance goals before they can open additional stores.

The Poelkings are already eyeing possible locations for store number two, much closer to the bowling center so they can do cross-promoting.

Ohio may seem a surprising locale for this kind of aggressive business, especially in bowling. The traditional blue-collar customer base has thinned with manufacturer closings for years. Just between 2008 and 2012, centers in the state declined from 318 (7,322 lanes) to 265 (6,140 lanes). In the Dayton market, where the Poelkings are located, center count dropped from 25 in 1990 to 11 in 2012.

Why re-mod, improve, expand now?

“Number one,” says Mike, “if I sit on my ass, I might not be in business. I’ll go back to what I was taught by my father. [He] drilled it into me: ‘Modernization is the key. Always try to move forward, never stay status quo. You always have to reinvest in your business; if you don’t reinvest, you won’t be in business.’”

And so, every 5-7 years, the Poelkings are doing something “major” at the center.

“Of course this is more major than anything we’ve ever done. But it’s not beyond me now to go in and clean the bathroom. We just had a sectional tournament here and Ellen and I cooked 110

pizzas over two days. She ran a machine and I ran a machine.”

It pays dividends in the business and in their relationship as well. The re-mod, says Ellen, “has brought a new life to us. We’re re-excited about our venture, instead of being stale. It keeps us going. It’s been a good ride.”

Mike will ditto that.

“I’m proud of this room, but I’m also proud of the center itself. I think it’s a gorgeous center, a homey feeling in the center, and we get a lot accomplished here. We still have a nice league base, we have good open bowling, good support from the community, so we’re pretty happy.

“We’ve hired somebody to go outside and do some sales for the room. He’s a bowler and he’s getting started with us this week. [We] look forward to keep doing things. I think we’ll keep it going.” ❖ Photos provided by Andy Snow

Fred Groh is a regular contributor to IBI and former managing editor of the magazine.

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DATEBOOK

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 Chris Gallas Chris@bpaa.com

18-20 BPA of the Carolinas/Georgia Convention Sea Trail Resort, Sunset Beach, NC www.bpacga.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

17 WTBA’s The Strike Gold Celebrity Challenge Sunset Station, Henderson, NV Kevin Dornberger Email: president@worldtenpinbowling.com

12-13 Indiana BCA Annual Meeting French Lick Springs Resort Brett Woodside 800-343-1329 x 8438 brett@bpaa.com

SEPTEMBER 23-27 Brunswick Pinsetter School Pinsetter factory Szekesfehervar, Hungary Siggi Hill Siggi.Hill@brunbowl.com

29 – October 9 School of Entertainment Center Management BPAA Intl. Bowling Campus Arlington, TX 800-343-1329

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For more information on Brunswick’s Direct+ technology and complete line of lane machines, go to www.brunswickbowling.com/products/lane-maintenance.

QubicaAMF offers FREE webinars throughout the year covering a variety of topics and designed to help you use our products to the fullest potential. Whether it’s to learn something new, or simply a refresher, these sessions are a great opportunity to hear best practices, tips for success or learn more about a new product. To register and check out the full schedule online go to www.qubicaamf.com/Webinars.aspx.

Allied Specialty Insurance is the name to remember in amusement and entertainment insurance. At Allied, they understand that your business is one of a kind, which is why they will design a policy individually tailored to meet your specific specialty insurance requirements. Allied will also make the most of your insurance dollars with competitive rates and you can count on prompt, efficient claims service 24 hours a day. Let them help you today. Call (727) 367-6900.

Are you ready to put text messaging to work in your center?

Now you can – easily and without a big budget with Bowling Web Doctor! If you want to reach your customers no matter where they are, and be able to deliver a promotion or special to them, then mobile marketing is the service for you!

Bowling Web Doctor will format your message and deliver it to the customers. To get started, call (877) 326-9599 or email carey@ebowl.biz.

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Sierra Products presents bowling pin sports bottles. Comes in a variety of colors; all of which glow under blacklight (except Clear). They are 32-ounce 13-inch tall sippers that would be great to use in your birthday party package!

Get a discount when you buy more than 25! Pins can even be personalized with name, address, logo, message, etc. The possibilities are endless! To place an order, go to www.noveltybowlingstuff.com today!

You have automatic scoring but do you have automatic marketing? Computer Sports Systems introduces Bowler Express, a product that gives you everything needed for a successful bowling business! They offer everything from keeping a bowler database to an online reservation system. Bowler express will even email you a complete financial report of all your activity of the center, DAILY! Sign up at no cost today! Call (800) 525-BOWL or visit www.bowlerexpress.com.

Give a pair of Bowlopolis Socks by Funtime Footwear to the special birthday girl or boy.

The birthday child will enjoy the Bowlopolis Cartoon Characters, Reset and Kingpin.

Thrifty parents will appreciate a practical gift in the birthday package. Bowlopolis socks will be a regular reminder of your center leading to many return visits.

Birthday guests can purchase Bowlopolis Socks for added revenue to your center. Check them out on our website www.funtimefootwear.com anytime 24/7 or call (336) 4959100.

Introduced at Bowl Expo by New Center Consulting, Touch Desk III is now offering Credit Card Integration with rates at or below the BPAA cost plus 5 cent program. We further integrate the card readers so that up to 8 cash drawer receipt printers can print off from a single terminal. It works with all legacy AMF and Brunswick scoring Systems to replace old antiquated management systems including, Command Network, Advantage, Accudesk, Centermaster, Vector, and Purrfect Desk. Contact Glenn Hartshorn at 248-375-2751.

C L A S S I F I E D S

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE REPAIR & EXCHANGE. Call for details (248) 375-2751.

NEW & USED Pro Shop Equipment.

Jayhawk Bowling Supply. 800-2556436 or jayhawkbowling.com.

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EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

C L A S S I F I E D S

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.

AMF SCORING SYSTEM: Complete with 32” LCD monitors & front office package for 12lane house. 2 years old. Asking $25,000; original $87,000 value. Boxed & ready to ship.

For more info, call Ken (618) 771-2775 or email kwiggs7@gmail.com.

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) 465-0099.

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) 536-7777.

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.

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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CENTER FOR SALE

C L A S S I F I E D S

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.

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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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.

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.

C L A S S I F I E D S

"Bowling Center Construction Specialists" New Center Construction Family Entertainment Centers Residential Bowling Lanes Modernization Mini Bowling Lanes Automatic Scoring CONTACT

BRIAN ESTES

(866) 961-7633 Office: (734) 469-4293

Toll Free:

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 •Used locks 1/2 price of new

All keys done by code #.

No keys necessary.

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 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/

C L A S S I F I E D S

CENTERS FOR SALE 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.

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.

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CENTER 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.

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.

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.

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BOWLINGFAN

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 MIKE BARRETT Call for Price List

Tel: (714) 871-7843 • Fax: (714) 522-0576

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C L A S S I F I E D S

CENTER FOR SALE SW NEW MEXICO: 16-lane Brunswick center on 2 acres, family owned for 20 years.

Only game in town! Synthetic lanes, Vector Plus scoring, sound system, restaurant & bar, pro shop & pool room. Hosts well-established tournaments, house leagues, school groups & birthday parties. $1.9 million. (575) 5745267 or tycole@comcast.net.

MICHIGAN-SOUTH CENTRAL: Large center with late model equipment. Strong league base plus high-volume franchise. RE included. Sandy Hansell (800) 222-9131.

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.

SERVICES AVAILABLE Drill Bit Sharpening and Measuring Ball Repair. Jayhawk Bowling Supply. 800255-6436 or Jayhawkbowling.com.

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!

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.

MECHANIC WANTED Brunswick A-2 mechanic wanted in Northern Virginia. Salary based on experience.

Send resume to: Brunswicka2mechanic@gmail.com.

FULL TIME MECHANIC FOR AMF 82-70 PINSPOTTERS. CALL JIM @ (402) 630-7398.

HELP WANTED SALES REP: Commission. Bowling This Month is seeking an experienced outside sales representative for its print/digital magazine.

Prospect, making sales calls. Email Alayne @ alayne@bowlingthismonth.com.

POSITION WANTED 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 or (201) 657-4684.

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