JACKSON BOWLING LANES HAS NEW MANAGER

John Wondel wants to see Jackson Bowling Lanes continue to be a pleasant place to bring a family or group of friends.

The Cap Girardeau native took over as manager of the bowling alley on August 5. An honors graduate of Southeast Missouri State University, Wondel has made use of his business administration degree by selling insurance.

Bowling has always been a part of Wondel's life, however. He has bowled for 16 years and is a certified bowling instructor, as well as a member of the Regional Bowling Association.

So far Wondel likes everything he has seen in Jackson.

"The people are really nice," he said. "The town has been very receptive of having me as manager. they're great people."

Wondel doesn't have plans for any big changes -- other than upgrading some equipment. New pin-setters have been added and new ball-returns are "in the works." A new skyline backdrop above the pins have also given the building a new look.

"I want to continue to run a family-oriented center," he said, "and to increase people's enjoyment of the game. I also want to bring more people into the sport."

Jackson Bowling Lanes already sees hundreds of bowlers hitting the alleys. It features mixed, senior citizen, men's, women's and youth leagues.

"We've had strong support in all the leagues," Wondel said. "The youth league has really grown. It's nice to see a lot of young people out here."

Open play is available for non-league bowlers on Saturday and Sundays, in the afternoon and evening. Also, 9-pin no-tap tournaments are held every weekend.