Striking new look at bowling center

  • Published
  • By Heidi Hunt
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  'Striking' new renovations at the Whiteman Bowling Center is projected to be complete Jan. 11, 2010 to improve quality of service here.

Several upgrades took place, beginning in 2007 and throughout 2009, in order to make 2010 'roll.'

The $700,000 transformations includes new synthetic lanes, approaches, masking units, bowler's area and carpet.

"Over the last three years, we've rebuilt and reconfigured the snack bar and added 32-inch, flat-screen TVs," said Dustin Schmidt, former bowling center manager. "To top it all off we've also completed all 16 lanes with new bumpers to make bowling more fun and exciting."

The final focus project was funded at an additional $100,000 and began in November 2009 according to Mr. Schmidt.

"This final focus project is the smallest of all of them that we've done; it's kind of the finishing up project for what we have been doing," Mr. Schmidt said. "Transformations in 2009 to the center include new floor and leveling it off, new mondo sports floor and furniture."

The new style is designed for more of a lounge seating feel Mr. Schmidt added.

Bowling enthusiast Christina Hays said the center has an entirely new atmosphere.

"The new look is fresh and contemporary," said Ms. Hays.

Customers can enjoy a new seating area with new couches and coffee tables, said Mr. Schmidt said.

"Mod-wall style back tables connect to bar stools onto a taller wooden-top table adds to the centers feel," Mr. Schmidt said. "Customers can stand around or sit at ease. There's also a place behind the bowler's area where bowlers can stand and eat their food and play cards during league."

A new state-of-the-art Storm Surface Factory machine has been added to sand, polish and resurfaces bowling balls for customer convenience according to Mr. Schmidt.

"We are now equipped to refinish bowling balls the same way as when you get them from the factory," Mr. Schmidt said. "It provides a better quality product to customers in less time."

According to Mr. Schmidt, the Fiscal Year 2009 was the best financial year the bowling center has ever seen. Additionally, Stars and Strikes was number one in ACC for financials net income after depreciation.

"The number of games, customers and sales have increased and have generated more revenue," said Mr. Schmidt.

As finishing touches come to an end, a new face has joined the team, replacing Mr. Schmidt is new manager Phillip Wagner.

Mr. Wagner said he plans to provide a fun and friendly atmosphere where Team Whiteman can come enjoy great food and a good time.

A re-grand opening is set for February 2010. For more information contact bowling center at (660) 687-5114.