International Bowling Industry October 2018

CONTENTS

VOL 26.10

6 SHORTS

26 COVER STORY

Celebrating BVL Month

The Belmonte Effect The best two-handed bowler in the world, Jason Belmonte, is also a master of social media.

His influence affects your center every day.

It’s that time of year again to support our hero veterans.

By Fred Kaplowitz

By Sean Krainert 18

8 SHORTS 34 BEHIND THE SCENES Taking Fun Way Too Seriously David Katz and BMI Merchandise innovate, partner, and evolve.

By Sean Krainert

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38 OPERATIONS Preparing for the worstcase scenario is your best protection.

By Pamela Kleibrink Thompson

Customers vote in unexpected ways.

By Ben Jones and Kay Anderson

47 Showcase 48 Datebook

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Bring in the Fun!

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October 2018

garber@bowlingindustry.com

OFFICE MANAGER Patty Heath heath@bowlingindustry.com

CONTRIBUTORS Kay Anderson Patty Heath Ben Jones Fred Kaplowitz Pamela Kleibrink Thompson Sean Krainert

ART DIRECTION & PRODUCTION Designworks www.dzynwrx.com (818) 735-9424

FOUNDER Allen Crown (1933-2002)

P.O. Box 7350 Overland Park, KS 66207 (818) 789-2695(BOWL) Fax (818) 789-2812 info@bowlingindustry.com

HOTLINE: 818-789-2695

Loyalty On Your Side?

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ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER David Garber

www.BowlingIndustry.com

16 CONSIDER THIS

By Sean Krainert

frager@bowlingindustry.com Skype: scottfrager

fisher@bowlingindustry.com

Failing To Plan Is A Plan To Fail

810 Billiards & Bowling expands the FEC industry with three dynamic concepts.

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Scott Frager

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Jackie Fisher

• Andy B’s goes to Branson while Punch Bowl Social seeks sports venues.

• Regano’s Roman Coin is a basement antique treasure.

• Prada and bowling; it’s ugly.

• The PBA Tour goes to Fox Sports and so does Rob Stone.

• F2FEC is again at The Broadmoor in March 2019.

By Patty Heath

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

49 Classifieds 34

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, P.O. Box 7350 Overland Park, KS 66207 USA. If possible, please furnish address mailing label.

Printed in U.S.A. Copyright 2018, B2B Media, Inc. No part of this magazine may be reprinted without the publisher’s permission.

MEMBER AND/OR SUPPORTER OF:

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

November Is Month In America

Raising Money for BVL Is Good for Our Wounded Vets... and Good for Your Business.

By Fred Kaplowitz

E

d Kiernan, a 95-year-old World War II veteran living at the Long Island, NY, state veterans home, remembers landing his airplane on an aircraft carrier in the Pacific more than 60 years ago. “That was pretty amazing,” he said.

A couple of months ago, he tried on a pair of virtual reality goggles for the first time, and his world changed.

Kiernan, a Marine who commanded a 90mm antiaircraft gun during the World War II Battle of Guadalcanal, was stunned.

All of a sudden, he was watching specialized video images that created the sensation of being inside the scenes he was witnessing. “Who would have thought you could put these goggles on and be in Paris? Or on an aircraft carrier? It was like I was right there,” said Kiernan.

Experts in the field of recreational therapy say that this type of virtual technology is particularly well-suited for elderly veterans whose age or service injuries make it hard to get out for adventures of their own.

In addition to overcoming physical limitations, virtual reality can also be effective in addressing the depression that can arise in not only elderly veterans, but recent veterans injured in the Middle East wars.

Scenes like Kiernan’s are being repeated almost daily thanks to the Bowlers to Veterans Link (BVL) charity which helps fund recreational therapy programs for America’s disabled veterans to cope with their debilitating injuries.

Founded in 1942, BVL supports recreational therapy for our nation’s veterans. With humble beginnings in World War II, BVL has maintained its leadership role in providing recreational programs and services for those who have served our country for 76 years.

Did you know that since the Viet Nam War, there are 207,788 wounded and disabled soldiers? This includes over 50,000 who came home from the Middle East wars with some form of disability. In total there are over 4,000,000 veterans with service-connected disabilities.

BVL doesn’t stop with just virtual reality goggles. BVL dollars have funded the purchase and use of sports equipment, arts and crafts supplies, pet therapy activities, bowling, games, as well as dance, 6

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drama, music, and community outings at VA medical centers, vet centers, and state homes around the nation.

BVL funds many different recreational programs, all designed to help veterans maintain or recover basic motor functioning and reasoning abilities, and build confidence and social skills.

November is BVL Month in America. It is the industry’s major fundraising effort and an opportunity for every bowling center in America to help raise money for our brave and courageous American heroes who have fought for our freedom.

Raising money this November has never been easier. Request a free BVL Month in America kit.

Included in the kits are soldier pins to sell for donations, as well as turnkey programs for a day, a weekend, a week, or the whole month. Order your kit by emailing BVL’s executive director Mary Harrar at mary@bvl.org or call (703)934-6039. Or you can go to www.bowlforveterans.org and click on Programs. It’s all there for you.

Please make a commitment to help raise money for BVL this November. Our vets are counting on you to keep their recreational therapy programs alive. ❖

Please Support BVL Month In America At Your Center.

Thank You So Much.

Fred Kaplowitz is president of the Kaploe Marketing Group, a marketing and management firm that helps BECs and FECs around the world increase business with innovative and unique programs. He is a cofounder of Kids Bowl Free and presents marketing seminars to the bowling industry and beyond.

SHORTS

A LITTLE BIG BOX TRANSFORMATION

EXPANSIONS, OPENINGS & NEW BEGINNINGS

While the trend has been for big chains to take over space left by big box establishments and turn them into FECs or BECs, in Holmen, WI, the closure of Festival Foods was the perfect opportunity for Jeff and Jackie Voves. Their plan … transform the grocery store into an eight-lane bowling center — currently named Breakaways — with a lounge that serves wood-fired pizza, as well as beer, wine and mixed drinks, plus an indoor playground and an arcade with games. That is the first phase. The expanded version would also include an indoor ice arena for hockey and public skating. As residents of Holmen, the Voves appreciate the need for family entertainment, and it is their goal to help that along. If all goes as planned, February 2019 is the projected opening.

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THE LARGEST BOWLING CENTER IN FAIRPORT HARBOR Brian Rich, co-owner of Rich Lanes in Fairport Harbor, OH, is not afraid to state the truth. Rich Lanes is the largest bowling center in Fairport Harbor, a town of 3,059 that sits on the shore of Lake Erie. It was built in 1955 by grandfather Tony Rich and started out as an eatery in the 1930s, before moving to its present location. There were eight lanes, and when Rich’s son Jerry and his wife Diane took over in 1972, they added an adjoining bar.

Now, third generation Rich is Jerry Jr. and Brian, who became proprietors in 2004. To bring the business into the 21st century, the brothers updated with synthetic lanes, underground returns and automatic scoring. In May this year, they closed to do further renovation. The refurbished dining area offers a large bar, exposed beam ceiling, faux reclaimed wood walls and modern tables and fixtures. Roll-up garagestyle windows at the rear open to a spacious patio. “People like to see you investing in your business,” Brian said.

PUNCH BOWL SOCIAL COZYS UP TO NATIONAL SPORTS TEAMS National sports teams in basketball and hockey seem to be high on the radar for Denver chain Punch Bowl Social. In Sacramento, CA, one opened near the arena recently built for the city’s NBA Kings. In Chicago, the NHL Blackhawks became the venue’s neighbor.

In early 2019, Punch Bowl Social will bring bowling, shuffleboard, Skee-Ball, along with karaoke and food and drinks, to a key building in the NBA Milwaukee Bucks’ entertainment block.

The Punch Bowl brand is definitely on the move and expecting to almost double in size, growing from 14 locations to 25 in the next 18 months. The focus also extends to smaller, quasi-urban markets to expand the brand.

AX-THROWING, ANYONE? Pinball machines, ax-throwing, escape rooms, oh my! Put them all together with burgers to die for and you have Corky’s Gaming Bistroin Grapevine, TX. Actually, there is a plethora of things to do. Besides 78 classic arcade games, there are a dozen pinball machines, four escape rooms, and 10 ax-throwing lanes. Staying in your own lane would be most appropriate. Now all it needs is bowling! Rounding out the venue is a restaurant and bar.

Paul Bunyan mush have visited Grapevine at one time or another. On the menu is the Babe the Ox Burger (a beef patty topped with spicy pulled pork and cheddar) and Paul Bunyan Fries (a pound of fries with melted shredded cheese, bacon pieces, and chives, served with lumberjack dressing).

ANDY B’S GOES BOUTIQUE IN BRANSON Andy B’s Bowl Social is in construction at the Landing in Branson, MO. It is the smaller sibling to Andy B’s in Springfield.

“This is definitely a new concept for the Andy B’s brand, so this will be more of what is called in the industry a boutique-style concept,” said Trevor Collins, director of marketing for the company. “It has a small footprint, larger focus on food and beverage and socialization, and different attractions all built around socialization and entertainment.”

For that entertainment, Andy B’s Bowl Social will include nine luxury bowling lanes, three express escape rooms, two virtual reality lounges where guests can have single-player virtual reality experiences, two group karaoke suites, and a variety of table games, including Ping-pong, shuffleboard, and foosball. Collins said the plan is to have the building completed and the business open by fall.

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SHORTS

ROB STONE, THE VOICE OF GO BOWLING ON FOX SPORTS Fox Sports, which will take over the coverage of the Go Bowling PBA Tour, announced that Rob Stone will return as the play-by-play announcer. Joining him will be veteran analyst Randy Pedersen and laneside reporter Kimberly Pressler.

The PBA goes to Fox on Dec. 23.

Media

WATCH NFL ROOKIE BOWLS WITH FANS The NFL Washington Redskins rookie and former LSU standout, Derrium Guice, made good on his fundraising promise to bowl with his fans who generously donated to his Go Fund Me page.

Guice’s goal was to raise money for Mary Bird Perkins Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Center. He asked his fans to help him raise $5,000. With those who donated $50, he invited them to join him at All-Star Lanes in Baton Rouge.

With other incentives offered, he not only reached his goal but raised $20,000. “Bowling is fun to me. It ran in my family. My greatgrandmother was in a bowling league for over 40 years,” Guice said.

Ugly is ‘in’...

if you can afford it

Prada puts bowling shirts back in style.

High-end fashion house, Prada, is back in the pink after three years of slipping sales and a less-than stellar profit. How does one celebrate that?

It has re-introduced several of its garish prints on bowling shirts which have been seen sported by actor Jeff Goldblum and rapper Pusha T. One of the most iconic is the banana motif which harkens back to 2011.

If you have to ask, the price tag on this little gem is $1,700+. New Yorker magazine called wearing Prada’s bowling shirt an act of “performance art.” Ugly chic might better sum it up.

BVL’s Best During the 2016 – 2017 donation year, over 180 centers contributed to the BVL effort.

However, there was a handful of multi­unit centers that stood head and shoulders above the rest. First and foremost, Maple Family Centers, followed by Bowland/Headpinz Centers; Don Carter Lanes; Royal Pin Leisure Lanes; and Sparetime Entertainment.

BENEATH THE SURFACE

In 1890, architect Otto Strack designed the tavern now called Regan’s Roman Coin on the lower east side of Milwaukee. According to Bobby Tanzilo, writer of online magazine www.radiomilwaukee.com, it was originally a Pabst “tied-house,” a bar owned by a brewery and exclusively offering its products.

Here’s where it gets kind of fun. In the basement, accessed through a discreet hatch in the floorboards of the bar and just inside the main entrance, were two lanes for bowling. Although closed to the public today, the lanes had a carved ball return running between them and benches at the end of the lane where pinsetters (the human kind) waited to reset between frames.

Who knows what lurks under the Outside of Regano’s Roman Coin. floorboards? The Phantom knows.

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The hatch and steps give the descent to the lanes an illicit feel.

These lanes have definitely seen better days.

SHORTS

F2FEC EXPERIENCE SET FOR MARCH 2019

ß BITS & PIECES ß ß ß LaserTAG360 is a Winner Creative Work’s LaserTAG360 is an educational event designed to help new and existing operators learn how to add laser tag to their facilities.

Attendees enjoy hands-on demos, networking opportunities, and site visits to multiple FECs in the Indianapolis area. This year’s three events were sold out.

Creative Works’ 2019 dates will be announced soon. Lasertag360.com.

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Brunswick’s New Website Brunswick has redesigned its website www.brunswickbowling.com. It features simpler navigation and easy access to support in a fresh design. The new website is directed to a wide variety of markets, not just bowlers and bowling centers, but also FECs, cinemas, resorts and hotels, casinos, and restaurants and bars.

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Go Bowling will join the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Go Bowling has achieved another first for bowling. It will join the 92nd annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®, Nov. 22, with a unique collection of balloonicles and specially created vehicles depicting the fun and whimsy of the game. 3.5 million spectators lining the streets of Manhattan and more than 50 million TV viewers will share one of America’s favorite family sports.

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Ventola illuminates Vegas’ Bally’s Hotel & Casino Ventola Projects, LED lighting and electrical specialists, was selected to ‘light-up’ Bally’s new state-of-the-art leisure facility, The Twilight Zone. The Zone includes a ten-pin bowling complex, indoor mini golf course, and a large seating area. Ventola’s VAvR LED allows the space to change the style and color of the lighting and have access to specific lighting shows.

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Self-pour Beer?

Rapid Fired Pizza in Bowling Green will be the first restaurant in Ohio to install a system that allows customers to pour their own beer. Rapid Fired Pizza worked and partnered with iPourIt Inc., a company that installs patented selfpouring services.

The Three Amigos have announced that the fifth annual F2FEC will once again be held at The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO, March 5 – 7, 2019. More than 225 thought-leaders and influencers from the family entertainment sector will gather to share in the three-day conference dedicated to fostering relationships, stimulating collaboration that sparks opportunities among owners, operators, manufacturers, and suppliers who are passionate about the industry and who are willing to invest and share financial results, challenges, strategies for success, and their outlook for a sustainable future.

F2FEC is founded and produced by the Three Amigos: Rick Iceberg, president, C.J. Barrymore’s; Ben Jones, GM and FEC specialist at Live Oak Bank; and George Smith, president, Family Entertainment Group.

What makes this particular conference unique is that F2FEC does not present itself as an educational or teaching forum. Instead, it provides a level playing field for all attendees and requires everyone to invest and participate.

EDITOR’S NOTE: In the September issue of IBI, High 5 Lanes and Games and TBK Sports Complex were said to be in Bettendorf, Louisiana.

The correct location is Bettendorf, Iowa. Our apologies to both and a very big thank you to Bev Van Blair, Iowa BPA, for catching our error.

Illinois steps up for Veterans Mid-August saw several Illinois bowling centers participating in a joint fundraising campaign aimed at supporting area veterans. All northern Illinois BPA centers took part in the Bowl for Freedom fundraiser. For 99 cents, each bowler got a game of bowling, shoe rental, hot dogs, Pepsi products, and 12

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Miller High Life. 100% of the proceeds went to veterans. The local BPA centers included: 4 Seasons Bowling Center, Freeport; Forest Hills Lanes, Loves Park; Park Lanes, Loves Park; The Cherry Bowl, Rockford; Don Carter Lanes, Rockford; and Viking Lanes, South Beloit.

CONSIDER THIS

Customers vote in unexpected ways.

By Ben Jones and Kay Anderson

B

uying is a choice. Voting is a choice. The decisions we make every day are based on perceived options or opportunities summed up as comparative choice. We submit that the act of choosing, the decisions we make, are based on trust or history. Period.

Let us explain. Trust, on one hand, is built through a series of experiences that may become a bond which can, over time, elevate a relationship defined by loyalty.

History, however, implies familiarity, convenience or compliance (as in with a request) but does not rise above trust. History is more like saying, ‘We’ve always done it this way’, but just because you’ve always had a customer doesn’t mean that you always will. In business, it is by providing the ultimate customer experience that creates the sort of customers you want: ones who are loyal and bring you more business.

When it comes to value propositions, it’s not enough to say, ‘We do a, b, c.’ That’s only a page from the playbook. And history? Well, history is not sustainable as a value proposition. In an era where every company offers, or claims to offer, ondemand, 24/7 service, you need to demonstrate value and prove your worth by offering tangible results and exceeding expectations, every single time. Broken

BOWLERO LANES ROYAL OAK, MI (16 LANES) We congratulate David Zainea and Dale Elliott on their purchase of this fine center and thank Brigitte and Jerry Imhoff for trusting Sandy Hansell to handle the sale. We wish David, Dale, Brigitte and Jerry all the best.

Bowling’s Only Full-Service Brokers, Appraisers & Financial Advisors

(619) 551- 6005 Check out our listings at www.thehansellgroup.com

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promises equal a damaged reputation.

Whether you deal with customers, clients, guests, or borrowers, buying decisions are based on simple comparisons of like or dislike, emotional connection vs distance, easy vs difficult, soft or hard, and biased or impartial. Distill comparisons down and the decisions we make are largely formulated, in combination, from the following: u Alignment with company values u Ease of doing business (close-by or neighborhood) u Relationship with sales person or company u Perceived value u Quality of product u Reputation of the provider, product or service u Delivery – when promised and where needed u Correctness and accuracy u Ease of change/flexible to my needs u Response to service needs after the sale And you thought price should make the list? No, price is only a determining factor in the absence of value. And even with loyalty on your side, delivering value is still paramount. ❖ Ben Jones is an industry enthusiast. He shares his perspectives each month through Boomer Blog and invites your feedback. He may be reached at boomerblog2@gmail.com .

Kay Anderson has spent much of her career providing financing solutions to small business owners to help convert dreams into reality. She has a keen interest in working with colleagues to develop exceptional communication and people skills.

FEATURE

BRING IN THE FUN! 810 Billiards &Bowling expands the FEC industry with three dynamic concepts.

By Sean Krainert ECs big and small have been popping up across the nation over the past few decades. The variation in size, theme, and amenities has expanded the world view of the family entertainment industry, as well as the sport of bowling. Bowling centers are restructuring to add arcades, dining, and billiards, while big box stores are opening up new and exciting options for venues — custom-designed, acre-sized, entertainment oases. On June 19, 2018, 810 Billiards & Bowling opened its second FEC at Market Common — a shopping and dining mall with a village vibe in Myrtle Beach, SC, and expanding the notion of family entertainment.

F

Inside Market Common: An Acre of Fun for Everyone Only three years after opening 710, a 23,000-square-foot FEC in North Myrtle Beach, visionary entrepreneur Mike Siniscalchi opened the doors to 810. The large space is reimagined and thoughtfully redesigned from the previous tenant, a popular grocery chain. The largest benefit of this location is the thriving foot-traffic set in the heart of Myrtle Beach. In a space that was vacant for over a year, the anticipation for 810 Billiards & Bowling at Market Common is a welcomed addition to a neighborhood that is seeing rapid growth in the residential market.

In ramping up for the opening, Siniscalchi brought on Tanya Sewell who now serves as the marketing director for 810.

“We have been branding 810 Billiards & Bowling at Market 18

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Common as an acre of fun for everyone. With a focus on getting back to the basics, we truly are an affordable family place that caters to all ages,” says Sewell. Appealing to multiple generations is a lofty mission for any business, and 810 nailed the objective with its location at Market Common. The features include two large dining areas, 20 standard-sized Switch bowling lanes, a large billiards area, and a cash arcade brimming with the latest video and skill-based games. To round out the affordable attractions, the center offers free activities, including ping-pong, board games, darts and cornhole. With only a few months under their belt at their new location, the over 43,000square-foot space is filled for organized game nights, recreational bowling, and live entertainment that packs the bar on Friday nights.

Breaking the boundaries of the archetypal FEC concept, starting this fall 810 Billiards & Bowling will open its doors at 6:30 a.m. to offer the bustling neighborhood coffee, breakfast, and lunch to go. 810’s demographic and marketing analysis projects the morning coffee concept will be met with enthusiasm by its retiree and millennial neighbors.

Three Concepts, One Vision It is no coincidence that 810 has opened two successful centers in a short period of time, with a third location opening in Conway, SC, winter 2018-2019. Siniscalchi began the venture with a clear vision from the get-go. “The idea was always to build a brand with multiple locations. Our view is there are a lot of high-end FECs across the nation. But we wanted to

FEATURE billiards to games and dining. Yet what makes these three venues unique are their variation in size, the type of location, and the process each of the centers has gone through to open the doors.

“We have three unique models that offer the same amenities, yet with a different approach. Having these separate models will boost our ability to franchise them and therefore cater to any location across the nation and their surrounding populations,” says Siniscalchi.

710 North Myrtle Beach was a 32-lane bowling center converted to a 20-lane venue with 14 standard bowling lanes and six lanes of boutique bowling in approximately 28,000 square feet.

Lounge area

prove that that we could offer the same level of entertainment for a lower cost to the customer and in less populated areas,” says Siniscalchi.

As 810 Billiard & Bowling Market Common location continues to grow, and the Conway location opens later, Siniscalchi will be rebranding his first venue, 710 North Myrtle Beach, to the 810 Billiards & Bowling brand and preparing to expand the business beyond South Carolina.

Each of the three centers shares the common theme of affordable fun with high-end amenities, from bowling and

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FEATURE 810 Billiards & Bowling at Market Common in South Myrtle Beach has over 43,000 square feet with 20 bowling lanes. The Conway location will be the smallest model of 810, with 12 bowling lanes in a 16,000-square-foot space that is being built from the ground up.

Franchising: A Win-Win-Win Franchising a business comes with a big list of both advantages and challenges.

John Fatigati, president, Switch While some businesses franchise to Bowling LLC supplement their bottom line and continue to grow their initial investments, passionate business owners like Siniscalchi recognize the power of franchising beyond financial gain.

With three distinct business models, Siniscalchi is able to extend franchising options that can cater to a multitude of entrepreneurs, while maintaining the integrity of his vision of affordable family entertainment. “Our franchise will be able to offer a flexible model to fit any size or appeal to any location.

And it will include everything we used for our original ventures, including an operational system, development, staff training, and ongoing operational support.”

810’s win-win-win includes the continuing growth of the 810 brand for Siniscalchi and his team, the opportunities for his franchisees, and most importantly, a win for the FEC industry by creating more places for people to enjoy the unique experiences that FECs can offer.

Along with the strong system of support that Siniscalchi and 810 will be extending to their future franchisees, 810 has a long-term agreement in place with Switch Bowling LLC, a well-known name in ultra-stylish bowling equipment and advanced bowling technology across Europe and Asia. Joining forces with 810, Switch will be making its long-awaited re-introduction to the U.S. market. Working with Switch’s John Fatigati, president of Switch Bowling LLC and a multi-center proprietor himself, 810 Billiards & Bowling will be placing Switch products and systems into all three of their centers, along with every future franchised 810 business.

810 VIP lanes, Back Alley

Equipment in 810 Billiards & Bowling 8 Switch Color Series Synthetic Lanes 8 Switch Genie Scoring with lower touch screens 8 SES string machines 8 LED cap lighting 8 Chesterfield Sofa Collection 8 Custom cocktail tables and table ball racks John has been an impassioned partner with Switch since their relaunch in the U.S. in 2017, dedicated to introducing Switch’s innovations to proprietors across the U.S. “The concept for franchising 810 Billiards &

Bowling is a great idea,” says Fatigati. “With Mike’s vision and structure, it opens up an opportunity for any size market to have an FEC. It is a true turnkey approach for potential operators and investors.”

810: Making Welcomed Waves Across the FEC Industry The crusade to expand the love for the sport of bowling across generations has a strong relationship to the continued growth of FECs around the world.

With a shared goal to bring joy into people’s lives, bowling enthusiasts and FEC owners alike continue to expand the concepts that appeal to customers. Mike Siniscalchi and 810 Billiards & Bowling are redefining the family entertainment possibilities, reaching more customers, and bringing more fun into their lives. ❖

Sean Krainert is a freelance copywriter living in the San Francisco Bay Area specializing in real estate, hospitality, and mental health writing.

He is also an alumni of the Wichita State Shocker bowling program.

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COVER STORY

#Focuso

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#LookMo

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COVER STORY

By Sean Krainert

S

ocial media is redefining our social and cultural infrastructure, including the way we interact with the celebrities we adore that were once considered untouchable. In 1964, nearly 3,000 fans anxiously awaited to greet The Beatles when they landed at JFK airport in New York. And thousands more spent many of their years trying to accurately pinpoint their location across the globe, just to catch a glimpse. Today, fans can directly connect with their role models and the stars they follow through multiple social media platforms and get a peek inside their lives at any time.

While fans still clamor around these famed figures to snap a photo and ask for an autograph, we now have access to direct interactions that strengthen our bond to them. Famed athletes like Jason Belmonte have leveraged these platforms to not only build a brand and create a space where his fans can feel connected, but to put the sport of bowling on center stage.

Jason’s parents, Marisa and Aldo Belmonte, with grandson Hugo

The beautiful Belmonte family personas: a competitive Jason Belmonte as an athlete that fans can follow and interact with, and Jason Belmonte the family guy. This allows Jason to interact with his fans separately from exchanging more personal posts and comments with family and close friends.

When it comes to using social media, we all have our own agenda, whether that be social, to connect with other likeminded people, stay in touch with family and friends, or voice our impassioned opinions. People who are more well-known and in the spotlight face the dilemma of how to balance their image and brand with how to share their personal opinions and insights but not fuel any unwanted fires. “My message and mission, whether I have one or one million followers, are always the same.

I want to be positive about our industry. I want to share my experiences and my entrepreneurially-spirited ideas. But what

The Attraction to the Virtual Space Jason was drawn to the fast-growing space of social media as an observer. After creating his first profile on Facebook, he reached his limit of friend requests overnight. “I remember thinking, ‘Whoa! I don’t know all of these people.’ I quickly realized I was able to reach a lot of people very quickly and could grow a fan base with a designated athlete page geared toward showing people a little bit of my world with an emphasis on bowling,” said Belmonte. Like many individuals in the limelight, using social media poses the challenge of separating their personal life from being present for their fans. Jason, like most highly sought-after people on the platforms, created two

Jason and Kimberly Belmonte IBI

October 2018

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COVER STORY I really want to convey is this: enjoy life’s moments!”

Jason’s personal life is his life. While he spends half of the year on the road as Jason Belmonte the bowler, he spends the other half at home with his wife, three children, and friends in Orange, Australia. As technology has been his go-to source for expanding his brand, it has also kept him connected to home while on the road. But as most people who live on the road will tell you, being home is where the heart is. “The good thing about my situation is even though I am gone for half of the year, the other six months that I’m home with my family, I am 100% present the whole time.”

Tweet – Post – Share – Chat, Repeat Every social media platform offers a very different way for people to interact.

The popularity of social media comes down to a basic human desire to connect with others and to be part of a community. As individual users, we gravitate toward the platforms that allow us to interact with others in a way that fits our preferences. However, as a business, seamless brand presences across all platforms with heavier use on the ones that target audiences use is essential in strengthening a product or service. As a bowler, Jason has a very unique situation.

The sport of bowling, like many sports, spans generations. In order to reach the different pockets of bowling enthusiasts

Jason starting his twohanded success across generations, he has been vigilant in exploring the pros, cons and effectiveness of each outlet.

“I am starting to understand which platform needs what sort of content.

Instagram is visual and all about telling your story quickly; Facebook is geared toward more of an older generation of social media users; and Twitter is a fun platform driven more toward sharing a very personal comment on a specific topic. I have been on these platforms for a long time. But Snapchat is newer and is for a much younger demographic.

What I am learning is that the content I am already sharing across the other platforms is not driven toward the demographic on Snapchat. I am now 30

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COVER STORY thriving. And while Jason has a platform and voice that attract many, they require the drive of every person who loves the sport. “I love it when I find out there are other people doing what they can to build pathways and increase bowling’s popularity. It makes me feel happy! At the same time, I am not looking for anybody to do exactly what I do; just because others are pushing bowling, I am not going to let go of the focus and work on something else. Those are the things I am passionate about, and those are the things I am going to work on no matter what.”

The Bottom Line (L to R) Hall of Famer Mark Roth, Jason Belmonte, Bill O’Neill, and Hall of Famer Marshall Holman working on sharing extremely creative and fun content here to engage with this age group.”

The most powerful tool Jason has besides sharing content is interacting with followers on his posts. People can now naturally, and immediately, connect when they participate on social media platforms.

“It is an automatic and intimate connection, and I try to engage with my followers to grow the relationship. When I am posting something, I am asking my fan base to read what I am saying, and I am inviting them to interact with me. I think it would be quite hypocritical if I didn’t interact back. I do my best to communicate back to as many people as I can.”

Athletes and stars like Jason often receive thousands of comments on posts. So, while it isn’t practical to respond to them all, he spends as much time as he can going through and listening to what his fans have to say. While most celebrities have social media managers for this very purpose, Jason prefers to manage his platforms on his own. When asked about it, Jason said: “I don’t feel the need for a social media manager at this point. I’m not really interested right now in creating a social media platform—I would rather create a brand.”

Building Bowling People who have an echoing voice in social media possess a power that is unparalleled to any other. Political figures, influencers, celebrities, and self-made stars can share thoughts, opinions, and ideas that have the ability to reach millions of people and inspire them. The responsibility that comes along with that is heavy, and Jason Belmonte takes that to heart.

Along with a mix of entrepreneurial ideas, family photos, and life experiences, Jason brings his passion for the sport of bowling to his followers. From bowling-sponsor-related messages to a forward-thinking voice for the sport, his tone is consistent. When asking Jason about the future of bowling, his passions lie in three areas: the road to the Olympics, growing the sport professionally, and creating more opportunities for the recreational bowler and proprietors.

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We all have our reasons to use social media, from personal to life-consuming crusades. Jason wrapped up his reason for social media with: “Why do I love social media as much as I do? I think it is a really good way to connect people. As a bowler, I want our fans to grow in numbers. And in order to do that, you really have to appeal to the fans you already have so

Jason makes time for a fan at the Japan Cup they can tell other people how cool bowlers really are and how we interact with the people that follow us.

That word of mouth is really valuable, and it is connection, and it is growth. Being able to connect with people everywhere, instantly, is one of the main reasons I enjoy using it.” ❖

Sean Krainert is a freelance copywriter living in the San Francisco Bay Area specializing in real estate, hospitality, and mental health writing.

He is also an alumni of the Wichita State Shocker bowling program.

PROFILE

TAKING FUN WAY TOO SERIOUSLY David Katz and BMI Merchandise innovate, partner, and evolve.

The BMI team.

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By Sean Krainert

I

n today’s quickly evolving world, merely keeping up with changes is proving to be not enough to stay relevant in the business world. Companies like BMI Merchandise have found that the essential key to being successful lies in how to use technological advances from within to create true prosperity. BMI CEO David Katz has strategically customdesigned his redemption business to integrate technology that not only keeps his own business seamlessly in step with the world, but brings his customers with him on a journey that offers the potential to thrive.

SELF-MADE

Having a prosperous business isn’t something that happens by chance. David’s unique business model was a self-made plan fueled by natural instincts rooted in his early childhood.

Growing up in New Jersey, David was fascinated by merchandising, gleaning invaluable skills from his parents’ pharmacy/merchandising business. Being a part of a family where long, dedicated hours of work were part of the norm, David’s entire life was built on a foundation of attributing success to one’s own efforts.

With sales and marketing wired into his DNA, David worked through college and into his early career in sales, building the momentum that ignited BMI Merchandise. After working in the poker machine business and navigating the constant changes that were reshaping the industry, David met the owner of a business called Bonita Marie Industries. The owner was a master idea man with an opportunist energy that sustained a successful crane merchandise business, serving operators across the Jersey Shore. Within a year, David had the opportunity to buy the business, which later became BMI. Building on the same principles of being able to act quickly and provide quality merchandise, BMI rapidly reached new levels of success with fresh ideas.

PROFILE

EMBRACING TECHNOLOGY TO ADD VALUE Capitalizing on the craze of crane arcade games, David added a twist to the already popular attraction by replacing plush merchandise with jewelry novelties. This step in an entrepreneurial direction became BMI’s trademark, making waves across the redemption industry with value-inspired services and products. “We were already established as a one-stop, one source, one solution redemption business. But we realized we needed to find a way to keep our customers’ business for years to come by offering more. We asked ourselves how we could be special to our customers and add value to their businesses. That is when we created AMRS, our 360° Redemption Solutions,” says David.

David Katz While David knew they were already a trusted supplier to their customer base, it was important that BMI Merchandise continue to evolve to not only be great at what they do, but to be the best. In 2010, David, with the help of his wife, Shelley, and long-

time crew, created a 360° merchandising redemption system. With AMRS, they became a unique, all-inclusive redemption merchandiser from creating custom-designed 3D plan-o-grams for each location based on their dimensions to providing precision redemption tools to maintain and excel the redemption process. Each customer was provided with a merchandise assortment based on demographics and inventory, an on-site merchandise set-up team, and a dedicated account manager who monitors sales and trends, autorefilling and seamless communication 365 days a year. By providing tailored solutions to redemption merchandising with up-to-date technology, dependable account managers and customer service, and trending information, BMI allowed their customers to be freed up to run their business without the worry of redemption chaos.

BMI Merchandise has a long history of adding value to customers big and small, from Dave & Buster’s and Main Event, to mom-and-pop venues across the nation. One of BMI’s many long-time relationships is with Todd Maunsell, director of operations for Cinergy Entertainment. “Over the

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PROFILE of the day, we provide our customers with the support, that in turn, helps us generate a precise redemption experience for them, and for their customers,” says David.

THE PERFECT COMBINATION Of TECHNOLOGY, PASSION, AND FAMILY

Ed Katz, Michael Katz, David Katz, Michael Maresca and Dave Schwartz

years, the inventory and refill process BMI developed has made it very easy for managers to spend time on what’s important: guest services and driving revenue. They are great at what they do and work hard to ensure there is trust in the partnership,” says Maunsell.

On the surface, it is clear why BMI Merchandise has succeeded in their field and why their products and services are backed by guarantee. Behind the scenes, David’s passion and accomplishments in life are ultimately fueled by family. His upbringing in a family of merchandisers sparked his interest in business, but

MOVING FUN FORWARD By continually reinvesting in IT, BMI’s tech-forward approach has generated a precision-based service that sets them apart. At every turn, they offer solutions to their customers that relieve the stress from the redemption platform. Added features to their services include things like POS assistance, barcoding merchandise, supplying custom ticket value cards with company logo, and more. Any entertainment business owner can attest to the obstacles of using their POS system to its full capacity to run daily operations. When customers work with BMI, they know they can skip the headache of calling their POS company and go straight to the front of the line by working with BMI’s team of POS experts, across every system. In order to optimize a precision-based redemption system, David knew that they had to become the experts across every field to help their customers use their own inventory and sales systems to aid the flow of AMRS. Companies across sectors have been daunted by the rate at which technology has grown and how it is changing business. It is common for some to overload themselves with tech-solutions but fail to master how to use them; others have stood back from seizing the benefits of technology altogether in fear of getting lost. BMI took the bold step of completely embracing technological advances, while diligently finding the balance between man and machine. It’s not about hitting a refill button. BMI mastered providing precision-based, tech-enabled solutions balanced by human touch and personable connectivity. By efficiently serving customers with this dual approach, David and his team have freed up businesses to focus on the customer and driving revenue, a win-win for everybody. “We have all of the services to help customers from the beginning, continuing 365 days a year! At the end 36

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David and Shelley Katz

his loved ones today are what continue to clearly mark his path. Two of David’s brothers, one of his sons, and his wife Shelley, share his mission and vision and are the cornerstone of the humanity behind the business. The perfect union of work and family are what make David tick. ❖

Sean Krainert is a freelance copywriter living in the San Francisco Bay Area specializing in real estate, hospitality, and mental health writing.

He is also an alumni of the Wichita State Shocker bowling program.

OPERATIONS

Failing To Plan Is A Plan To

Fail

Preparing for the worst-case scenario is your best protection.

By Pamela Kleibrink Thompson

B

enjamin Franklin is well known for his wisdom and savvy about money and diplomacy. But few people know about his background in insurance. He was an early proponent of mutual insurance. Franklin and his Union Fire Company met with other Philadelphia firefighting companies to discuss the formation of a fire insurance company in May of 1752. Members agreed to make equal payments to the Philadelphia Contributionship, which would be used to pay for losses any member might sustain through fire to his property. Although 143 policies took effect, there wasn’t a single claim in the first year of operation by the Philadelphia Contributionship – there were no fires of insured properties. Franklin went on to propose other types of insurance, like annuities and life insurance.

Any responsible bowling center proprietor knows the value of insurance, for a myriad of disasters.

Fire Prevention: Inspect and Maintain Cameron Linder, CEO, Western Bowling Proprietors Insurance and Rednil Insurance Brokers, Inc., noted that, “Electrical malfunctions are the number one cause of unconfined fires not extinguished by a sprinkler system.” The most effective and affordable way to prevent these kinds of fires is to inspect the electrical system. Linder points out that WBPI is an insurance program designed exclusively for bowling centers and WBPI finds that many center owners overlook inspecting electrical systems which may be a hodgepodge of older equipment.

First line of defense: Thermography. It is used to inspect electrical systems. Thermography is a technique that uses infrared imagery to look at heat signatures of breaker panels, connections, and temperature differences in components of electrical systems. Linder explains that it is kind of like “The 38

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“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

— Benjamin Franklin

Predator” movie – you can read the heat signature of the system. Infrared imaging using themography can detect problems such as loose connections, poor contacts, overloading, capacitor breakdowns, unbalanced loads, and overheating.

Linder notes that typically the problems found are minor corrections and if aluminum wiring is found it can be corrected.

Aluminum wiring was used for a certain period of time – the late 1960s and early 1970s. Aluminum wiring can overheat and cause fires.

Statistically there are 11 fires at bowling centers every year, yet many proprietors don’t always see the need for an inspection of the electrical system. Linder notes that the carriers they do business with discount the premium over several years to offset the cost of the test. So why doesn’t everyone conduct a thermography test?

The main objection, Linder notes, is, “Some proprietors are afraid of what they [the inspectors] might find. They are afraid the insurance company will cancel their policy, Cameron Linder, CEO of Western but they will have an opportunity Bowling Proprietors Insurance. continued on page 42...

OPERATIONS ... continued from page 38

to correct everything before the report is sent in.”

The cost of a thermogaphy test depends on the number of lanes in the center, and runs from $1,500 to $2,500.

Linder also encourages proprietors to have the electrical system reinspected every three years. Subsequent inspections are not as extensive nor expensive. Any center doing remodeling or adding features should reinspect.

Linder has observed a reduction of fire incidents where thermography inspections of the electrical system is done.

His company works with numerous centers, especially in California. In the last seven years, only five fires occurred and none of them catastrophic. One $300,000 fire was caused by an employee’s cigarette. “With insurance you can replace your bowling center, but you can’t replace customers. No one wants a fire. It’s a heartache for everybody.”

Strong Roof Equals Strong Business Another area to inspect and maintain is the roof.

Bowstring truss roofs and barrel shaped roofs should be inspected by a structural engineer. Linder points out that some insurance companies don’t cover roof damage if the roof is not maintained properly.

Frivolous claims by customers are also a hazard to proprietors. The biggest defensive tool in fighting frivolous claims is a video surveillance system.

Easy Steps to Protect Your Business 1. Review your insurance policy and make sure your coverage is sufficient. Go to www.disastersafety.org/risks and put in your zip code to help identify hazards most likely to impact your area.

Ask if you have business interruption insurance and whether it covers service interruption from the electric company, gas company, or water, without which you can not operate.

2. You can download emergency apps on your smartphone — they have information about how to prepare, respond, and recover from a disaster.

3. Have all important documents — insurance policies, bank numbers and important contact information — at your fingertips and in a safe, fireproof, and water proof storage spot.

4. Pictures are worth a thousand words, so keep current pictures of your facility, including all equipment, from 42

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arcade games to pin setters. In the recovery process you have to account for what is lost or damaged. In situations where things are actually gone, it is hard to remember in detail what you have lost.

5. Know the location of the nearest tornado or hurricane shelter; if you do not have one, know where to direct your customers in case of emergency. Have pictures and maps to communicate with all customers.

6. Know your flood risk. Make a flood emergency plan. Build or restock your emergency preparedness kit, including flashlights, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.

7. Familiarize yourself with local emergency plans. Know where to go and how to get there should you need to get to higher ground, the highest level of a building, or to evacuate. During a disaster, stay tuned to your phone alerts, TV, or radio for weather updates, emergency instructions, or evacuation orders.

8. Consider buying flood insurance. According to The National Flood Insurance website, “At least 25 percent of businesses that close after destructive events such as floods never reopen. From 2010 to 2014, the average commercial flood claim amounted to nearly $89,000.”

9. Consider purchasing business income insurance. According to the insurance trade magazine Adjusting Today, “Immediately after a loss, expenses generally skyrocket as revenues plummet. To prepare for the cash flow problem, the insured should be cautious and plan for every eventuality when initially estimating a business interruption claim, and based on those calculations, request a meaningful advance payment.”

10. And, if you decide to rebuild, take a recorder to meetings with the contractor and the city to verify conversations and what was covered in meetings. Check with the utility companies to see if they have rebates or incentives, before deciding on replacements.

Prevent as many problems as you can and be prepared when disaster strikes. You, your employees, customers, and business will be prepared and protected. ❖ Resources: Ready.gov | Floodsmart.gov | Fema.gov | Redcross.com Pamela Kleibrink Thompson lives in Idaho. In addition to writing, she is a career coach and scenario role player for peace officer training.

Pamela worked as a production manager on the Emmy Award-winning animated series The Simpsons, where she bowled regularly with members of the crew. She speaks on career issues at conferences all over the world. You can reach Pamela at PamRecruit@q.com.

SHOWCASE HIGH-BACK BOOTHS

Create a VIP experience for guests with the beautiful, high-backed booth seating from Brunswick’s Center Stage furniture line. This modular soft-seating is ideal for restaurants, bars, or bowlers’ areas to provide intimate social spaces that give guests privacy and sound buffering so they can enjoy the company of friends and family. Designed for configuration flexibility, these booths can be easily mixed and matched with other soft seating from the Center Stage line to create the perfect arrangement for your center—all with the options proprietors have come to know and love. To learn more, please visit brunswickbowling.com.

BILLIARD-STYLE HOUSE BALLS

WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT

QubicaAMF’s billiard-style house balls are designed to look like real billiard balls. Made from the same premium urethane, using the same manufacturing process as our one-of-a-kind Smart Ball System, they come standard with the patented Comfort Fit Grip. These balls are sure to add flair to your facility.

Available in two grip sizes per weight, these balls are perfect for boutique-style centers.

Style, along with fast, simple selection, and our exclusive Comfort Fit Grip makes for happier bowlers—and more games. Learn more at www.qubicaamf.com.

Now you have a real choice in websites! eBowl.biz has partnered with an expert website developer to deliver affordable websites that will make your center more visible and drive traffic. These websites are mobile optimized with advanced SEO, SSL security, Google indexed Calendar, Selfie Machine, and more. Take your online presence to the next level with a BowlRx website! Get the details at www.BowlRx.com or call (541) 549-0999 for an online demo.

DREAMWORKS’ TROLLS

New Center Consulting Inc., based in Rochester Hills, MI, recently introduced TouchScore 3 Scoring’s newest feature, On Lane. This latest addition allows customers to order food and beverage using the Keypad/Lower Monitor Tablet’s easy to follow screens. Once keyed in, the order shows up in the Orders menu tab, and notifies the center of the order.

When ready, messages can either be sent to the lane to notify the customers their items are ready to be picked up or staff can take the order to the lane. Simple. Easy to use. An effective way to better serve bowlers in any center. For more information, Contact Glenn Hartshorn at (248) 375-2751.

Bay Tek’s Tower of Tickets, a proven redemption game, is now available as an officially licensed DreamWorks Trolls version.

Players time the release of the moving arm to skillfully knock the targets off the rotating playfield and onto the RFID scoring platform. The ones with the tufts of DreamWorks Trolls hair on them are worth big points. This new version comes with additional features besides the popular licensed artwork. The marquee can be powered via a ceiling power drop or from the standard floor outlet below, for added flexibility. Order now or get more information by contacting Bay Tek Games, (920) 8223951, sales@baytekgames.com, or contact a Bay Tek Games distributor.

ON-LANE ORDERING

AUTO SCORING SYSTEM

Steltronic’s development team, along with the Steltronic 3-D graphics department has released FocusNEX, a totally new bowling center automatic scoring system. Additionally, Vision-NEX will accompany the newest front desk and back office management system, a newly designed set of themes that have WOW factor built in. “I gotta have it,” was the response we heard many times from the proprietors attending Bowl Expo in Las Vegas. “We are YOUR bowling center management specialists since 1980.”

For more information: (800) 942-5939 or info@steltronicscoring.com.

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DATEBOOK BPAA One-Day Management Boot Camps Available to state associations & multi-unit centers Contact Kelly Bednar (817) 385-8462 Kelly@bpaa.com

OCTOBER 4-7 Pro Shop Training Classes Jayhawk Bowling Supply Russ or Alex (800) 255-6436

NOVEMBER

APRIL

12-16 IAAPA Attractions Expo Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL iaapa.org/expos/iaapa-attractionsexpo/home

29 – MAY 2 USBC Convention The Orleans Las Vegas Bowl.com/conventions

DECEMBER 6-9 Pro Shop Training Classes Jayhawk Bowling Supply Russ or Alex (800) 255-6436

PLAN NOW TOURNAMENTS FOR 2019

JANUARY 7-9 Southwest Trade Show Texas Bowling Centers Association Golden Nugget Group rate available ($119) Lake Charles, LA Karen Miller (512) 467-9331 klm@sbcglobal.net

8-9 BCA of Florida Annual Meeting Innisbrook Resort & Golf Club Palm Harbor, FL Chris Gallas chris@bpaa.com

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East Coast Bowling Center Convention Kalahari Resort – Poconos www.bpaa.com

11-12 TrainerTainment Business Coaching BPAA Training Campus, Arlington, TX Trainertainment.net (817) 886-4840

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2-7 2019 USBC Team USA Trials U.S. Amateur Championships Gold Coast Bowling Center Las Vegas

JANUARY 2019 13-17 BPAA Summit New Orleans, LA New Orleans Marriott bpaa.com/bowlingsummit

MARCH 9 – JUNE 29 Open Championships South Point Bowling Plaza Las Vegas Registration: bowl.com/USBC.Registration

27-29 IAAPA FEC Summit Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort Austin, TX Iaapa.org/events-education/events

APRIL 20 – JUNE 29 Women’s Championships Northrock Lanes Wichita, KS Registration: bowl.com/USBC.Registration

MARCH 5-7 F2FEC EXPERIENCE The Broadmoor Colorado Springs, CO Rick Iceberg: rick@F2conference.com Ben Jones: be@jonesdetroit.com George Smith: geosmith4756@gmail.com

JULY 13 – 20 Junior Gold Championships Detroit, MI, area Bowl.com/Junior_Gold

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Official magazine of the convention

CLASSIFIEDS

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CLASSIFIEDS EQUIPMENT FOR SALE FOR SALE: 24 Brunswick seating: swing &swivel, oval, and 18 swing&swivel, pear, glow; Steltronic & Qubica automatic scoring.

Email for details; 24 synthetic lanes foulline forward, includes deck; reconditioned Lustre Kings; ZOT ball kickers; Kegel Kustodian; Bumper/gutter and capping; and 16-lane package, includes A2s, Steltronic auto scoring w/ 42� flatscreens, Brunswick synthetic panels, auto bumper system, also Laser Runner laser tag, fantastic condition. Will take out and move to your location.

Knotritellc@gmail.com.

NEW & USED Pro Shop Equipment.

Jayhawk Bowling Supply. (800) 255-6436 or jayhawkbowling.com.

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

EQUIPMENT WANTED LANE MACHINES WANTED. We will purchase your KEGEL-built machine, any age or condition. Call (608) 764-1464.

WWW.TEXTBOWLING.COM

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POSITION WANTED Certified Brunswick mechanic versed on all American and Japanese serial machines and ZOT conversions. Seeking part time or full time in the Denver and central Colorado area. Will furnish all tools and equipment.

Very experienced; with excellent references.

Call (303) 948-8770 or (720) 527-4287.

EDUCATION & TRAINING PRO SHOP TRAINING. Classes always forming. Jayhawk Bowling Supply (800) 255-6436 or jayhawkbowling.com.

SERVICES AVAILABLE

CENTERS FOR SALE OHIO: Well-established 42-lane center: Brunswick A-2 jetbacks; AS 90 scoring w/all upgrades; new upper flat screens. Includes restaurant, snack bar, nursery, liquor license.

42,000 s/f bldg. on 5.46 acres in the city.

COMPLETE TURNKEY OPERATION. Contact Allan Anderson, (740) 503-0452.

FLORIDA: Central. Attractive, mid-sized center with revenues trending up. Owner retiring. Call David Driscoll (352) 735-8065.

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

Drill Bit Sharpening and Measuring Ball Repair. Jayhawk Bowling Supply. (800) 255-6436 or jayhawkbowling.com.

CENTERS FOR SALE CENTRAL IDAHO: Busy, updated, 8-lane (synthetic) center: electronic scorekeeping, league play & 50-seat restaurant with drive thru. Easy highway access. Assumable loan.

Call (775) 720-2726 for more details.

LOCKER KEYS FAST! All Keys done by code # Locks and Master Keys E-mail: huff@inreach.com TOLL FREE

1-800-700-4539

CLASSIFIEDS

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CLASSIFIEDS 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

TECHNICIAN NEEDED QubicaAMF, the world’s largest bowling equipment provider, is seeking a technician wanting to take their skills to the next level by joining our Technical Support team located in Richmond, Virginia.

We are seeking a self-motivated professional with excellent communication skills, who pays attention to details, is a great listener and technical troubleshooter.

The ideal candidate will have practical knowledge on lanes, ball returns and scoring equipment and working knowledge of pinspotters and/or pinsetters. They will know safety procedures and standards of bowling equipment. Can easily troubleshoot, identify and suggest repairs and/or replacements of malfunctioning bowling equipment.

This position will be will be responsible for answering incoming calls for customers, conducting comprehensive assessments of issues, troubleshooting and providing solutions to challenges.

We offer a competitive compensation package which includes medical and a 401K plan.

If you have the desire to work for the market leader in the industry, please send your resume along with a cover letter detailing your experience to Peggy Martin at pmartin@qubicaamf.us.

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CLASSIFIEDS

WWW.TEXTBOWLING.COM 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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