LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- For many Americans, the iconic images of bowling balls shooting down finely polished lanes has defined a generation and their past-times of choice.
In a bid to update the game for the newest generation, the 47th Force Support Squadron recently completed upgrades to the Cactus Lanes bowling alley. The changes involve not only a modernization, but personalized and new ways to play the game.
Gerri Fischer, 47th Force Support Squadron bowling alley manager, touts the new upgrades as a more interactive bowling experience, connected with families and friends both in the bowling alley and across social media.
“You’re not just throwing the ball down the lane and knocking down pins,” Fischer said. “There are more games that allow you create a monster, hit targets on the screen, and even link up multiple lanes to play games.”
Along with updating the bowling game, the lanes themselves received a new facelift, featuring brand new lighting, highlighting the pins and the lanes in a colorful assortment, along with new music options.
“The new upgrades make bowling a more exciting and interactive experience,” said 2nd Lt. Richard Nelson, 47th Student Squadron specialized undergraduate pilot training student. “I have a blast every time I go to Cactus Lanes.”
These upgrades stem from a series of planned upgrades, having begun with a dining addition to the building, to a future planned renovation of the kitchen to provide a more traditional dining experience.
“There’s no question about it, the upgrades are absolutely awesome,” said 2nd Lt. Greg Hodson, 47th STUS student pilot. “Cactus Lanes gives us an opportunity to let loose, have a good time on base, and not have to worry about driving home.”
Improving quality-of-life on Laughlin has always been important to the staff at the Cactus Lanes Bowling Alley and the 47th FSS. Their commitment to enhancing the bowling alley experience through numerous, phased in upgrades, helps to ensure that good food and fun is in Laughlin’s backyard.